BNS Section 274 Adulteration of Food or Drink Intended for Sale
Food is life. What we eat should nourish us, not harm us. But when people mix harmful substances into food or drinks, it becomes a serious crime. That’s exactly what BNS Section 274 aims to stop.
Let’s break it down in simple words.
What is BNS Section 274?
BNS Section 274 Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale deals with the crime of mixing harmful substances into food or drinks meant for public sale.
If someone:
- Alters food or drink by adding harmful stuff,
- Intends to sell it as food or drink,
- Or knows it might be sold,
Then that person is guilty under this law.
The Legal Text (In Easy Words)
Whoever:
- Adulterates (mixes something harmful),
- Any article of food or drink,
- So that it becomes dangerous or unfit to consume,
- With the intention to sell it,
- Or knowing it is likely to be sold,
Shall be punished with:
- Jail up to 6 months,
- Or a fine up to ₹10,000,
- Or both.
Why Is This Law Important?
Food adulteration is not just cheating—it is life-threatening.
People trust what they buy. When that trust is broken, it affects health, especially for children, the elderly, and the sick.
BNS Section 274 protects consumers from this betrayal.
What is Adulteration?
Adulteration means adding bad or inferior things to food. For example:
- Adding water to milk.
- Mixing brick powder in chili powder.
- Using harmful chemicals to make fruits look fresh.
Even if no one falls ill, just the act of making food harmful knowingly is enough to be punished.
A Short Note
This section focuses on intent and knowledge.
It doesn’t matter if the food is actually sold.
It is enough if the person intends or knows it might be sold.
So, even a person who prepares such food for someone else to sell can be booked under this section.
Relevant Case Laws
Though BNS is new (2023), we can refer to older judgments under similar IPC sections (like Section 272 IPC).
State of Gujarat v. Chaturbhai Maganbhai Patel (1976)
The accused was found selling adulterated edible oil.
The Supreme Court held that even negligence in ensuring food quality is punishable.
This shows the strict approach courts take on food safety.
Municipal Corporation of Delhi v. Laxmi Narain Tandon (1976)
A vendor was caught selling contaminated milk.
The court said that health safety is non-negotiable, and strict punishment is needed to deter offenders.
These cases reflect the intent of BNS Section 274—to ensure public health is not compromised.
Real-Life Examples of BNS Section 274
Let’s understand through a few simple situations.
Example 1:
Ravi adds water to milk and sells it. He knows it dilutes nutrition.
He is guilty under BNS Section 274.
Example 2:
Meena adds a chemical to keep vegetables fresh for days. She knows people will buy them.
She can be punished under this section.
Example 3:
A shopkeeper sells canned food, unaware it was expired.
If there was no intent or knowledge of harm, it may not fall under BNS Section 274. But he could still be liable under food safety laws.
How is This Different from Other Laws?
There are other laws like:
- FSSAI Act (Food Safety and Standards Act),
- Legal Metrology Act,
- Essential Commodities Act,
But BNS Section 274 is criminal in nature. That means:
- The person can be arrested,
- Tried in a criminal court,
- And sent to jail if found guilty.
Other laws may only impose penalties or fines.
How This Helps Consumers
This law:
- Puts fear in the minds of food adulterators.
- Builds confidence in the food supply system.
- Protects public health.
- Ensures businesses don’t cheat for profit.
A street vendor or big brand—no one is above the law when it comes to public health.
BNS Section 274 Punishment at a Glance
Offense: Adulteration of food or drink
Jail Term: Up to 6 months
Fine: Up to ₹10,000
Type: Cognizable, bailable
Trial: Magistrate’s Court
Final Thoughts
BNS Section 274 Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale is a small section with a big purpose. It sends a clear message: Food safety is sacred.
From the milkman to the factory, everyone must act responsibly. One act of greed can put lives at risk.
So, next time you see food being tampered with—report it. Public awareness and strong laws together keep our plates safe.
Disclaimer
This article is for general understanding only. It does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a legal expert for any specific issue under BNS Section 274 Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale or related matters.
