FDA, J&K Intensifies Food Safety Enforcement Activities across the Union Territory

Srinagar : Continuing its efforts to ensure adherence to the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and applicable rules/regulations, the Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K, today carried out food safety enforcement and surveillance activities across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. A total of 121 inspections of Food Business Operators (FBOs), including 06 dairy processing units, were conducted in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Rajouri, Kathua, Srinagar, Anantnag, Ganderbal, Bandipore, Kupwara, Baramulla and Budgam districts of the Union territory. During the drive, 70 food samples were collected for analysis. The samples included Paneer (06), Ghee (04), Prepared Foods (05), Honey (02), Milk (21), Edible Oil (10), Ice Cream (02), Spices (15), and Cereal Products (05).

As part of its surveillance programme, the Organization also collected 19 surveillance samples from ICDS and Public Distribution System (PDS) Centre’s to monitor the quality and safety of food. In addition, 08 imported food samples were subjected to label scrutiny to verify compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Regulations.

During the enforcement drive, 04 Food Business Operators (FBOs) were compounded under Section 69 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 for violations of sanitary and hygiene requirements, and a total penalty of ₹4,000 was imposed. In addition, 05 Improvement Notices were issued to Food Business Operators for rectification of deficiencies observed during inspections.

Consumers have been advised to remain vigilant while purchasing milk and milk products and to report any suspected cases of unsafe, adulterated, or substandard food through the Toll-Free Helpline No. 104 or by email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.