Food Safety drive conducted in Shopian, action initiated against violators

SHOPIAN: To safeguard public health and ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations, an inspection team of Food Safety, Shopian, headed by Food Safety Officer, Shopian, Firdous Ahmed Pandit, carried out extensive inspections of various food establishments including, bakeries, meat shops and Kiryana stores at Nadigam,Kutpora and Kundalan areas of the district.

During the drive, the inspection team thoroughly examined the quality of food items, hygiene and sanitation practices being followed at the establishments, storage conditions of food products and overall compliance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The team laid special emphasis on maintaining proper hygiene, safe storage of food materials and ensuring that food items meant for public consumption meet the prescribed safety standards.

During the course of inspection, expired food items were immediately seized and destroyed on the spot to eliminate any potential risk to public health. The team also sensitized the shopkeepers and food business operators about maintaining quality standards and adhering strictly to food safety guidelines.

Furthermore, two Food Business Operators (FBOs) were found violating the relevant provisions of the Act and have been recommended for legal action under Section 69 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Meanwhile, the inspection team also visited the ICDS Centre at Nadigam to verify the hygiene conditions and proper handling of food provided to the beneficiaries.The team inspected the kitchen area, storage of ration and overall sanitation facilities at the centre.

Necessary instructions were issued to the concerned staff to maintain cleanliness, ensure proper storage of food items and strictly follow the prescribed food safety and hygiene norms to safeguard the health of beneficiaries.