Mohali, Oct. 2 -- Despite the Mohali health department imposing fines worth Rs.66 lakh over the past three years against food business operators (FBOs) found guilty of adulteration, compliance on the ground remains poor.

On average, the department collects about 50 food samples every month, of which nearly one-third-15 to 17 samples-fail quality tests. During the festive season, the number of samples collected increases to around 75-80.

Officials said that the majority of violations are found in milk-based products. Investigations have revealed the use of synthetic sugar and artificial colours in sweets. Shockingly, samples of chamcham were found to contain synthetic colours, raising serious concerns about consumer safety.

Currently, a...