Consumers seeking bargain dairy products in Russia may be paying with their health, as regulatory data reveals a shocking 17.68% of dairy items failed quality tests in 2025 - the highest adulteration rate in recent years. This alarming statistic underscores growing concerns about food safety standards in the country's dairy sector.
While adulteration rates remained relatively stable between 2022 and 2024, the dramatic spike in 2025 has raised red flags among food safety authorities. Industry analysts attribute this surge to several factors: the high demand for dairy products, simple production processes , and low manufacturing costs that enable unscrupulous producers to cut corners for profit.
Regulatory spot checks identified discount retail channels as particularly problematic, with significantly higher rates of substandard dairy products compared to mainstream retailers. Experts warn that while price-conscious consumers may be drawn to these bargain offerings, they risk falling into a "low-price trap" that compromises both product quality and their own health.
The findings highlight an urgent need for strengthened oversight in Russia's dairy industry. Food safety officials emphasize that consumers should prioritize purchasing from reputable brands and established retailers, even if this means paying slightly higher prices, to ensure product authenticity and safety standards.