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In Kodaikanal, tourists are being misled with fake ‘mountain honey’ sold in banned plastic bottles, sparking concern over health risks and calls for stricter action
Some local women in Kodaikanal are selling sugar syrup disguised as pure mountain honey, prompting calls for strict action. (AI Generated)
Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station nestled in Tamil Nadu’s Dindigul district, is a popular tourist destination known for its serene lakes, lush green valleys, and cool climate. Often called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, it attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to relax amidst its misty mountains and scenic beauty.
However, a growing concern has surfaced that threatens the experience of many tourists. It has been alleged that a group of women, along with others, have been selling fake honey by filling banned one-litre plastic water bottles with sugar syrup and passing it off as pure mountain honey.
This activity has reportedly been taking place along Goshen Road, the main route that leads to several key tourist spots in Kodaikanal. Over recent days, groups have allegedly been flagging down vehicles near forested patches of this road and convincing travellers to buy what they claim is freshly collected honey from the nearby hills.
Unaware of the scam, many tourists purchase the product believing it to be genuine. It is only after returning home that they discover they have been sold nothing more than flavoured sugar syrup. This has led to growing disappointment and concern, especially over potential health risks.
Despite earlier warnings from the Food Safety Department nearly two months ago, locals say the group has resumed operations. They continue to mislead visitors by falsely marketing the counterfeit honey as a local speciality.
There is now mounting public pressure on the authorities, particularly the Food Safety Department, to take strict action against those involved and ensure that tourists are not put at risk. Locals are urging for more robust checks and monitoring in tourist-heavy areas to protect the integrity of the region and the safety of its visitors.
- Location :
Kodaikanal, India, India
- First Published:
