Srinagar, Oct 22, KDC: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has intensified food safety inspections across all districts as part of a festive season enforcement drive aimed at ensuring compliance with prescribed food safety standards.
According to a handout issued by the department, 274 inspections have been conducted and 213 food samples collected for laboratory analysis during the ongoing drive.
The samples include 119 of edible oils, 11 of sweets, six of ghee, three of khoya and seven of paneer, along with samples of other food products.
The department said the drive focuses on checking the quality and safety of edible oils, ghee, sweets, khoya, paneer, milk and milk products, as well as other food items commonly consumed during the festive season.
During inspections, Food Business Operators (FBOs) are being directed to comply with prescribed requirements concerning food hygiene, sanitation, storage and handling. They have also been instructed to maintain hygienic conditions at their establishments in accordance with Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
The FDA reiterated that all food business operators must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the rules and regulations framed under it. Violations, the department said, will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The department added that the enforcement drive will continue across the Union Territory through regular inspections and sampling to monitor compliance and safeguard public health.
Meanwhile, consumers have been advised to report suspected unsafe or adulterated food products through the toll-free helpline 104 or by emailing [email protected]. (KDC)
