Surprise Inspections Reveal Harmful Chemical in “Sleep Well” Incense Sticks..

Varahimedia.com ,30th,November,2025:Acting on the instructions of the Ex-Officio Special Chief Secretary of the Agriculture Department, officials conducted surprise inspections at shops selling “Sleep Well” incense sticks manufactured by Sai Hanuman Agencies, Vijayawada, and M/s Ashikas Company, Gunadala, Bengaluru.

Samples of the incense sticks were sent to the National Institute of Plant Health Management (NIPHM), Hyderabad, for analysis. The test report confirmed the presence of Meperfluthrin, an unregistered insecticide, in the product.

Following this, the Agriculture Officer of NTR District, Vijayawada, along with the Assistant Director (Business Support), carried out an inspection at the shop of Sri Gollapudi Radha Krishna Murthy in Vijayawada. Incense sticks valued at approximately ₹69.24 lakh were seized during the operation.

Authorities cautioned that Meperfluthrin may cause respiratory illnesses, and the Director of Agriculture has instructed all state units to conduct strict inspections. Any stock found will result in legal action under the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971.

The State Agriculture Department has urged consumers to remain alert while purchasing “Sleep Well” incense sticks and to report suspicious products immediately.

About Author

varahimedia.com

See author's posts