SIT Flags Use of Monoglycerides in Adulterated Ghee Supplied to Tirumala!

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has concluded that Bholebaba Dairy supplied adulterated ghee to Tirumala by extensively using the chemical monoglycerides during the previous YSRCP regime. The probe found that monoglycerides were imported from South Korea by a Delhi-based firm and routed through Sugandh Oils to Bholebaba Dairy. During raids conducted on April 23 last year at Sugandh Oils, officials seized large quantities of monoglycerides stored in 200-kg drums under the “Venus” brand, manufactured by a South Korea–based company. Subsequent inspections at Bholebaba Dairy’s unit in Bhagwanpur, Uttarakhand, revealed the same chemical, confirming its use in the manufacture of adulterated ghee supplied to Tirumala, as stated in the SIT charge sheet.

Laboratory tests conducted by NDDB-CALF on ghee samples sent by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams in July 2024 indicated the possible presence of cow fat and pig fat, based on abnormal S-value readings. Experts note that monoglycerides can be produced from vegetable oils or animal fats, with the latter being cheaper and commonly used in adulteration. While the SIT confirmed the use of monoglycerides, it did not conduct a deeper probe into whether they were derived from animal fats, despite strong indications from lab reports and purchase patterns involving fake invoices under the guise of edible oils. The charge sheet also states that chemicals such as beta-carotene, acetic acid ester and lactic acid were blended with palm oil and palm kernel oil to mimic pure ghee and evade laboratory detection.