Authorities in Delhi have busted an illegal distribution hub dealing in banned performance-enhancing drugs and expired health supplements. The raid uncovered significant quantities of expired and potentially unsafe products, highlighting the risks associated with the booming nutrition supplements market. This action underscores the need for stringent regulation to protect consumers, especially the youth.
The good news is that younger generations are paying extra attention to their fitness and wellness, which is why the nutrition supplements market is at an all-time high. According to the Market Analysis Report, India’s nutritional supplements market size was estimated at USD 42.97 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2030.
India’s nutritional supplements market is primarily driven by its young population, increasing disposable incomes, and rising health awareness. While this rise has been for good, it has also created significant scope for illegal trade practices that harm the younger generation. However, the sad news is that in a recent raid, officials from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Northern Regional Office, Central Food Safety Officers, and Delhi Police busted an illegal distribution hub in Delhi’s Najafgarh that dealt in banned performance-enhancing drugs and expired health supplements.The FSSAI officials flagged serious violations related to the sale of health supplements without a valid food licence. Around 45 kg of expired gainers and whey protein were seized, while 85 kg of protein and creatine products have been kept under scrutiny for safety checks.Officers also seized around 2,800 capsules and tablets along with 11 injectable units of banned substances. Additionally, 1,500 capsules of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) and Adenosine Monophosphate injections were recovered.
What is protein powder
Protein powder is a nutrition supplement made by extracting protein from plant or animal-based sources. Naturally occurring carbohydrates, minerals, fats, fibers are removed while supplementary nutrients and even sweeteners may be added. For the uninitiated, the word protein is derived from the Greek word ‘protas,’ meaning ‘of primary importance,’ and it is a critical nutrient for maintaining a healthy body.
It helps in muscle growth, hair growth, tissue repair, antibody functioning, and more. Often, meat is considered a source of protein, but plenty of other protein sources are available. Certain plants are excellent sources of protein with lower calories. Whey protein is another source derived from byproducts of cheese manufacturing.
How much protein is important
According to USDA, a person’s protein requirement depends on their age, weight, activity level, and health needs.
However, it is recommended that adults consume 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Importance of homemade protein powder
Homemade protein powder can be adjusted according to your nutritional requirements. You can use dates, agave syrup, honey, etc., to sweeten the protein shake. If you are diabetic, you can avoid adding fruits and sweeteners to your homemade protein shake.
How to make homemade protein powder
Ingredients: 0.25 cup chia seeds, 0.33 cup flax seeds, 0.5 cup pumpkin seeds, 0.33 cup sunflower seeds, 0.25 cup almonds, 0.5 cup oats and 0.25 cup chana dalMethod: To begin with, preheat the oven to 160 degrees C for 4-5 minutes. Toast the almonds for 4-5 minutes. Next, roast the flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chana dal, and oats for 3-4 minutes. You can also do this in a pan on low flame. Do not burn them. After roasting, let them cool down. Grind into a fine powder and transfer the powder to an airtight container. Use as required. Use as required.Images Courtesy: istock
