Adulteration refers to the process of adding inferior or harmful substances to a product, often to increase quantity or reduce costs. This practice is commonly seen in food and beverages, where ingredients may be diluted or replaced with cheaper alternatives, compromising quality and safety. For example, milk may be adulterated with water, or spices might contain artificial colors. The consequences of adulteration can be serious, leading to health risks for consumers. Regulatory bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), work to prevent adulteration by enforcing standards and conducting inspections. Awareness and education about adulteration help consumers make informed choices.