24 Aug 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is examining concerns surrounding the sourcing of ready-to-cook food products by Markfed from private suppliers for Punjab’s Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP), which covers thousands of anganwadi centres across the state.
Why Markfed’s Procurement Is Under Scrutiny
The ED is examining an internal communication from Punjab’s Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development (SSWCD) that had flagged repeated complaints about food items sourced by Markfed from private suppliers.
The department had also raised concerns over the taste and texture of panjiri prepared using refined soybean oil and outsourced to private contractors. The product was later discontinued.
Questions Over Tendering Process
The investigation is also looking at WhatsApp chats dated January 21, which allegedly indicated attempts to influence the tendering process.
An internal Markfed note reportedly sought action against officials who had extended tenders, adding another layer to the ED’s examination of the procurement process.
Food Supplied to Anganwadi Centres
Punjab’s SNP is implemented through the Integrated Child Development Services and covers around 26,600 anganwadi centres, benefiting approximately 12 lakh people.
Markfed had supplied products including fun pops, khichdi premixes and sweet and salty dalia premixes to anganwadi centres.
Concerns Over Private Contractors
The issue of food sourced from private contractors was discussed at a high-level government meeting in December 2025.
Officials had highlighted complaints linked to outsourced food products and pushed Markfed and Milkfed to strengthen their own manufacturing capacity rather than relying heavily on outside suppliers.
Government Wanted In-House Production
The long-term solution discussed by the department was the creation or strengthening of in-house manufacturing facilities for Markfed and Milkfed.
Officials pointed to Milkfed’s existing panjiri production units as an example of how food products could be manufactured within the cooperative system.
Why Soybean Oil Became an Issue
The traditional panjiri prepared using desi ghee was discontinued in 2023 because of its high cost and replaced with a version prepared using soybean oil.
According to the department, the soybean-oil formulation met nutritional standards advised by Punjab Agricultural University. However, complaints about food supplied by private contractors continued to emerge.
Markfed Later Withdrew From Supply
Months after the complaints and allegations regarding quality, Markfed withdrew from the procurement and supply of food products to anganwadi centres.
The development came as the department continued to push for greater in-house production capacity.
What Happens Next
The ED’s examination is focused on the procurement process, communications and internal records surrounding the sourcing of food products.
The reported investigation does not by itself establish wrongdoing. Any allegations of manipulation, irregularities or corruption would need to be established through the investigation and due legal process.