Kerala crackdown on spurious cosmetics: 15 cases registered in statewide raids

The Drugs Control Department in Kerala has registered 15 cases related to the sale of counterfeit and illegally imported cosmetics, following a series of raids conducted across the State in the last week of July. The inspections were part of Operation Soundarya, which is now in its fourth year.

Officials confirmed that cases were reported from several districts, including Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram. Items seized during the operation include face creams, lipsticks, and shave lotions, suspected to be spurious. Preliminary inquiries suggest that most of the counterfeit products were manufactured outside Kerala.

The raids primarily targeted wholesale dealers in urban areas. According to an official, cases were detected by examining product labels, purchase records, and licences. “Wholesale centres were targeted because these products are then supplied to retailers in multiple locations, including interiors. Fake and substandard products have been finding their way into the Kerala market in recent years, especially as the demand for cosmetics, particularly lipsticks, has risen across income and age groups,” the official said.

The department has warned consumers against being misled by attractive labels and exaggerated advertising claims. Officials noted that counterfeit products are sometimes sold under the names of well-known brands, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine items from fakes. Uncontrolled use of such products can lead to skin problems and other health risks, they added.

Samples of suspected products have been drawn during the raids and will be examined at the department’s Drug Testing Laboratories in Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram, Konni, and Ernakulam. Further action will be taken based on laboratory results.

Officials claimed that the volume of counterfeit cosmetics entering the market has decreased over the years due to sustained scrutiny. “Traders have become more aware of the quality of products and the consequences of selling substandard items. Those caught are booked under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act,” an official said.

Operation Soundarya was launched in 2023 after routine inspections revealed that many cosmetics available in the market were either fake, improperly manufactured, or brought in without following legal procedures. The first phase of raids resulted in 18 cases, the second phase in 22 cases, and the third phase in 12 cases. The latest round adds to these numbers, underscoring the continued challenge posed by the illicit cosmetics trade.