A Food Standards Agency National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) operation investigating the distribution and sale of basmati rice in counterfeit packaging has resulted in the arrest of four people.
On July 23, the NFCU conducted an operation in Leicester with assistance from local authorities and Leicestershire Police. A 48-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation and conspiracy to defraud and released under investigation.
A week later, NFCU officers, supported by local authorities, the Metropolitan Police and Surrey Police, visited multiple premises in London, leading to three arrests.
A 56-year-old male and 51-year-old female from Croydon, along with a 48-year-old male from Epsom, were arrested on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation and conspiracy to defraud and later released under investigation.
A 52-year-old male from London also attended a police station for a voluntary interview.
Large quantities of 10kg and 20kg bags of mixed rice in counterfeit premium brand basmati packaging were seized as part of the operation.
“It is good to see continued active official enforcement of the Basmati Code of Practice, which alongside regular industry surveys ensure that when UK consumers buy basmati rice they are getting an authentic product,” said Rice Association head of technical and regulatory affairs, Joe Brennan.
The code sets out the physical and aroma quality requirements of basmati rice and specifies the varieties that can be considered basmati, which is verified with DNA authenticity testing2 by accredited laboratories. Basmati rice must be grown in India and Pakistan.
A condition of Rice Association membership is to uphold industry standards, such as adherence to the Basmati Code of Practice. This requirement is taken seriously and consumer enquiries are investigated.
“If consumers have concerns that basmati rice is not authentic or meeting quality standards, we recommend they contact the brand owner or the Rice Association” added Joe.
Neil Castle, Deputy Head of the FSA’s NFCU, said, "The deliberate misrepresentation of legally imported bags of mixed rice as premium basmati products defrauds consumers and creates unfair competition for legitimate businesses.
"This operation demonstrates the NFCU's commitment to protecting consumers from food crime and safeguarding our food supply chain.
"The arrests send a clear message that we will pursue those who seek to profit from deceiving consumers. Our teams will continue to work with partners to identify, investigate and disrupt these criminal networks, ensuring food is what it says it is.
"There is no health risk to the public, however if you have concerns about a product you have purchased, contact your local Trading Standards.”
Enquiries are ongoing.