Dairy brand Amul has issued a clarification after a video showing the development of what appeared to be fungus in its packaged lassi drink went viral on social media. The company claimed that the video is fake and termed it an attempt to create misinformation and spread unnecessary fear among customers.
The viral clip shows packets of Amul lassi, one of which is set to expire on October 12 this year. A man cuts its upper portion and shows a fungus-like substance that has developed on top of the yogurt-based drink.
Taking to Twitter, Amul shared a screenshot of the video and claimed it to be fake. “This is for your kind information that a fake message is being forwarded on Whatsapp and Social Media platforms regarding inferior quality of Amul Lassi. The creator of the video has not contacted us for clarification, nor the location has been disclosed,” the dairy brand stated.
Issued in Public Interest by #Amul #AmulLassi pic.twitter.com/SyZKvrBYDr
— Amul.coop (@Amul_Coop) May 25, 2023
Explaining further, Amul said the tetra packs in the video can be seen damaged in the straw hole area and pointed out that liquid was leaking from the hole. “The fungus development in these packs are due to this hole which the maker of the video is most probably aware of,” the statement added.
Further, Amul said consumers are advised on the product label not to buy puffed or leaky packs. “This video has been used to create misinformation and spread unnecessary fear and concern among consumers,” it said.
The latest controversy surrounding Amul comes at a time when the dairy brand’s entry into Tamil Nadu’s market has triggered a row. Chief Minister M K Stalin even urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to stop the Gujarat-based dairy cooperative from procuring milk from the catchment areas currently utilised by the regional cooperative Aavin. In Karnataka also, the brand’s entry had been opposed due to its alleged potential to harm the sales of the regional brand Nandini.