What does the term 'adulteration' mean in the context of consumer exploitation in the marketplace?

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Accepted Answer

## Model Answer **Adulteration** refers to the mixing of inferior, harmful, or substandard substances with a product, reducing its quality or purity. It is an unfair trade practice through which traders cheat consumers by selling impure or defective goods — for example, selling adulterated food or edible oil — without the consumer's knowledge. *Source: The Consumer in the Marketplace; Consumer Movement — Chapter 5* --- ## Explanation - The textbook mentions adulteration specifically as an example of **unfair trade practices** in the marketplace. - It also notes that **adulteration of food and edible oil** was one of the key triggers for the organised consumer movement in India in the 1960s. - For 2 marks, examiners expect: **(1)** a clear definition and **(2)** a brief example or context. Avoid writing a long paragraph — two to three sentences are sufficient.

Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question