TTD Ghee Case: ED Finds Palm Oil and Chemicals in Adulterated Ghee

The investigation into the alleged adulteration of ghee supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has taken a fresh turn with the Enforcement Directorate reporting the use of refined palm oil, palmolein and other chemicals in the preparation of adulterated ghee. The ED’s investigation is part of the money-laundering probe linked to the alleged supply of substandard ghee for Srivari Laddu prasadam. The agency has also arrested Sukriti Foods promoter Kailash Chand Mangla in connection with the case.

Meanwhile, recent reports on the CBI-led SIT investigation have raised questions over the earlier claims regarding animal fat in the ghee. A CBI chargesheet reportedly states that laboratory testing found synthetic ghee made from synthetic material and vegetable oils, without referring to animal fats in the supplied ghee. At the same time, court records relating to the investigation contain allegations concerning consignments that were found to contain vegetable and animal fat-based substances. The contrasting findings have kept the issue in focus, with the investigations examining the alleged adulteration, supply chain and financial irregularities surrounding the case.