Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific provision in the IPC that punishes the act of adulterating food or drink. This falls under the chapter on offences affecting public health, safety, convenience, decency, and morals.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the relevant sections of the IPC:
\begin{itemize}
\item S.227: Deals with violation of condition of remission of punishment. It is irrelevant to the question.
\item S.272: This section is titled "Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale." It penalizes the act of adulterating any article of food or drink, so as to make such article noxious as food or drink, with the intention to sell it or knowing it is likely to be sold. This perfectly matches the question.
\item S.277: Deals with "Fouling water of public spring or reservoir."
\item S.273: This section is related but distinct. It punishes the "Sale of noxious food or drink." It penalizes the act of selling, or offering for sale, any food or drink which has been rendered noxious.
\end{itemize}
The question specifically asks about the act of adulteration, not the act of selling. Therefore, Section 272 is the correct answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The adulteration of food or drink intended for sale is punishable under S.272.