SRINAGAR: The Food Safety Department in Srinagar on Monday launched an inspection drive across several areas of the city and found multiple violations related to hygiene and improper storage of food items, officials said.
An official said that a team led by Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Srinagar, Yameen-ul-Nabi, conducted inspections in Karanagar, Kanikadal, Fateh Kadal, Gojwara and Hawal to ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act and Rules.
During the inspections, three bakery units were found violating provisions of Schedule-4 of the Food Safety and Standards Act relating to hygiene and sanitary requirements, officials said.
They said prosecution proceedings under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Rules and Regulations would be initiated against the erring bakery units, and the cases would be submitted before the competent court of law.
The inspection team also found that several retail shopkeepers and small wholesalers were exposing food items directly to sunlight and were not adhering to prescribed storage conditions mentioned on product labels, which could adversely affect the quality and safety of food products.
Officials directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) not to expose food products to excessive sunlight and to ensure that all food items are stored in cool and dry places or strictly in accordance with storage instructions mentioned on product labels.
The department further directed all FBOs to follow proper storage practices and maintain hygienic conditions as mandated under the Food Safety and Standards Act and Regulations.
Officials warned that any violation or non-compliance with food safety norms would invite strict legal action under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act. (JKNS)
