Kerala Drug Control Department intensifies crackdown on counterfeit beauty products with ‘Operation Saundarya’ Phase 3, seizing substandard cosmetics and initiating legal action against violators.
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Drug Control Department has launched the third phase of ‘Operation Saundarya’, a state-wide initiative aimed at identifying and seizing fake beauty products from the market. In the past few days, inspections were carried out across 101 establishments, primarily focusing on products like lipstick, face creams, baby powder, baby soap, and baby oil.
The operation led to the filing of cases against 12 firms that were found distributing beauty products without proper licenses or violating the Cosmetic Rules 2020. Over ₹1.5 lakh worth of substandard cosmetic products were seized. 59 samples of these products have been sent for lab testing, and stronger actions will be taken based on the test results, according to Veena George, the Health Minister of Kerala.
In the earlier phases of the operation, harmful chemicals, including mercury, were found in beauty products like lipstick and face creams, at levels that could pose serious health risks, including internal organ damage. As a result, the inspections have been further intensified.
Consumers are advised to check the labels of beauty products, ensuring they are produced by licensed manufacturers and that the manufacturer’s address is clearly mentioned. Those with complaints can report to the Drugs Control Department at the toll-free number 18004253182.
