SRINAGAR: In order to ensure the availability of safe, hygienic and wholesome food to the public, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Food Safety Kashmir, Shagoofa Jalal today took a detailed review of the implementation of Food Safety & Standards Act in Kashmir Division. During the meeting, the DC reviewed different activities carried out by the Enforcement Officers.
It was informed that with effect from April to October 2024, 7419 inspections were conducted and a total number of 6930 samples of different categories of food items were lifted for testing of quality and safety parameters of food articles prescribed under the provisions of Food Safety & standards Act.
The meeting was also informed that 5478 samples were analyzed during the same period and 1620 prosecutions against the violators of the Act have been launched by the enforcement officers in various courts, and an amount of Rs.10,28,900 has been imposed as fine on various food Business Operators contravening the provisions of FSSAI Act.
Besides, 1136 cases were compounded on spot under section 69 of the Act, by the Designated Officers and a fine of Rs 1299500 was realized. Further 14725 License/registration were issued under section 31 of the Act, during the said period and 98 awareness programs were organized. Mobile Food Testing Vans (Food Safety on Wheels) were deployed and 5509 samples were analyzed on spot to instill confidence amongst consumers that food is safe to eat.
The Enforcement Officers of the Kashmir division were directed to issue improvement notices against food business operators who do not adhere to the provisions of the Act and conduct regular awareness programmes. Food Business operators were directed to stop use of food colours in ready to serve Food particularly in Wazawan and Pickle. Also stop using newspapers for packing, serving and storing food items.
