The report highlighted coliform levels up to 98 times higher than the limits set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in certain Amul pouch samples. High TPC readings — a measure of the total viable bacteria present — were also recorded, with Mother Dairy cow milk showing readings nearly eight times the permitted limit and Country Delight roughly twice the safety threshold. These indicators can signal lapses in processing hygiene, storage, or distribution.

Coliform bacteria, while not always themselves pathogenic, are widely regarded in dairy science as indicator organisms whose presence suggests a greater risk that other harmful bacteria could be present due to contamination or handling issues. In the context of milk processing, elevated coliform counts often point to failures in sanitation practices or cold chain maintenance rather than deliberate adulteration.

Despite these findings, the brands involved have historically emphasized their quality control systems and pasteurization processes. Industry experts and commentators note that temperature breaches during transport and retail storage can allow bacterial populations to grow even if initial pasteurization met standards; this makes consistent refrigeration and handling crucial to maintaining dairy product safety.