 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 17: In a concerted effort to ensure food safety during the Holy Amarnath Yatra and the upcoming festivals of Raksha Bandhan and Janmashtami, the Department of Food Safety, under the Drugs and Food Control Organization (DFCO) of Jammu, has initiated a vigorous campaign to enforce the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006. The campaign, which began on August 1, 2024, has already led to significant actions against violators in the region.
During the drive, the department seized 4.5 quintals of suspicious khoya and its products, including petha and milk cake. Samples of these products have been sent for further analysis under the FSSA. Additionally, inspections across various markets in Jammu Division resulted in the destruction of unhygienic and perished fruits and vegetables worth Rs. 1300 on the spot.
Over the course of the campaign, which ran from August 1 to August 17, 2024, Food Safety Officers conducted 231 inspections, issued 24 improvement notices, and lifted 200 legal samples for analysis. Furthermore, 202 surveillance samples were collected, and 32 cases were compounded on the spot, resulting in fines totaling Rs. 43,200. Another 18 cases were decided by the Additional Deputy Commissioners, leading to fines of Rs. 62,000.
The department also intensified its focus on ensuring the safety of pilgrims participating in the Amarnath Yatra. The teams conducted thorough inspections of langar establishments along the yatra route, ensuring that safe and potable water was used and that proper sanitation and hygiene measures were in place. Food Business Operators (FBOs) were warned against repeated violations and were advised to avoid using cooked oil multiple times to prevent toxicity and health hazards, in line with the RUCO initiative of the FSSAI.
Expressing concern over the recurrence of food adulteration and insanitary practices, especially during the summer season, the DFCO emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of food products such as sweets, water, juices, milk, and milk products. The department's ongoing drive is aimed at raising awareness among food handlers, including street vendors, milk vendors, retailers, wholesalers, and dealers, about Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and good hygienic practices.
The DFCO has urged the public to support its efforts by reporting any malpractices to ensure consumer safety. The department also acknowledged the support of the local police in its enforcement activities and reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety during the yatra and beyond.
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