Authors
Vasudha noticed the growing problem of mis/disinformation online after studying New Media at ACJ in Chennai and became interested in separating facts from fiction. She is interested in learning how global issues affect individuals on a micro level. Before joining Newschecker’s English team, she was working with Latestly.
Claim
A man details how to distinguish the fake China-made Amul butter from the original one by distinguishing their packaging design.
The post can be seen here.
Fact
A keyword search for “Amul Butter,” “China” & “Fake Packaging” did not yield any credible news reports suggesting the circulation of any fake Amul product in the recent past in the markets.
One of the main aspects that made the ‘fake’ packaging stand apart from the ‘original’ one according to the video is the “colour differentiation” between the two packaging. However, this was not clear in the footage because of uneven exposure.
Additionally, the person behind the camera can be heard saying that in the “fake” product, the green dot (signifying that the product is vegetarian) is seen in the front-side of the packaging as against the back in the “real one”. However, the same can also be seen in a picture of Amul butter on the official website of the cooperative society.
Furthermore, in a Facebook post, dated February 15, 2023, Amul had issued a statement clarifying that the viral video is fabricated, and that “both packets of Amul Butter shown in the video are genuine and manufactured in India by Amul.”
The cooperative stated, “This is for your kind information that a fake message is being forwarded on Whatsapp and Social Media platforms regarding duplicate Amul Butter packed in China. We wish to inform you, both packets of Amul Butter shown in the video are genuine and manufactured in India by Amul. As per advisory of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, all new dairy products must show the veg logo on the front of the pack. ”
It added, “The video clipping shows comparison between the earlier pack and new pack of Amul Butter and has been used to create misinformation and spread fear and concern among consumers. A legal notice has been issued to the individuals of Srinagar, who are involved in creating this fake news story. We request you to kindly share this message with your family and friends and sensitize them.”
The same clarification was posted on their official Instagram and Twitter accounts.
We could thus conclude that the viral “public interest” video detailing how to distinguish fake China-made Amul butter from the authentic product is fabricated. Amul itself clarified that both the packages seen in the footage are genuine and made in India by the cooperative.
Result: False
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Authors
Vasudha noticed the growing problem of mis/disinformation online after studying New Media at ACJ in Chennai and became interested in separating facts from fiction. She is interested in learning how global issues affect individuals on a micro level. Before joining Newschecker’s English team, she was working with Latestly.
