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India uncovers major food export fraud involving PepsiCo, Nestle products

Indian food safety authorities have dismantled an operation that was falsifying expiry dates and labels on packaged food products destined for export. The six-day investigation resulted in the seizure of goods valued at approximately US$80,000.

LSN Malaysia · 1 September 2026

India uncovers major food export fraud involving PepsiCo, Nestle products

Food safety officers in India conducted an extensive investigation into a facility that was systematically altering expiry dates and product labels on food items from major multinational manufacturers including PepsiCo and Nestle. The operation targeted goods intended for export markets, raising concerns about the integrity of supply chains across the region.

The investigation, which spanned six days, culminated in the seizure of adulterated and mislabeled products worth nearly US$80,000. Authorities identified the fraudulent practices during routine inspections and subsequently expanded their probe to uncover the full scope of the operation.

The discovery highlights persistent challenges facing food safety regulators in India, where enforcement agencies continue to combat illegal practices that compromise product quality and consumer safety. The case underscores the importance of rigorous oversight of export-oriented food manufacturing facilities.

Both PepsiCo and Nestle maintain extensive operations in India and supply products to markets throughout South and Southeast Asia. The incident is likely to prompt increased scrutiny of manufacturing practices and quality control measures at facilities producing goods for international distribution.