66 Food Samples lifted for quality assessment
Srinagar : The Food Safety Wing of the Drugs & Food Control Organization (D&FCO), Jammu & Kashmir, has further intensified its enforcement and surveillance activities across the Union Territory to ensure the availability of safe, wholesome and quality food for consumers.
As part of the ongoing food safety drive, Food Safety Teams conducted 80 inspections of Food Business Establishments (FBEs) across different districts of Jammu & Kashmir and lifted 66 food samples for detailed laboratory analysis. The initiative is aimed at ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and regulations framed thereunder and to safeguard public health.
The samples collected during the enforcement drive included ghee, milk, spices, edible oil, cereal products, beverages and nutraceuticals. The collected samples have been forwarded to the designated Food Testing Laboratories for analysis to ascertain their conformity with the prescribed food safety standards.
During the inspections, seven Food Business Operators (FBOs) were found violating food safety provisions. Necessary action was initiated against the violators under the relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Their cases were compounded and a fine of ₹9,500 was imposed.
Further, one case has been recommended for prosecution against a Food Business Operator found operating without a valid food license, in violation of the mandatory licensing provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The department also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected case of unsafe, adulterated or substandard food through the Toll-Free Helpline No. 104 or email at [email protected].
