KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, May 17: In a major push to strengthen public health safeguards and ensure the availability of safe food for consumers, the Food Safety Department has intensified its inspection drive across Srinagar city, conducting surprise checks at various food establishments to enforce hygiene and safety regulations.
As part of the ongoing campaign, the Food Safety Officer (FSO) for Zone 1 carried out extensive inspections of several bakery shops situated along the busy Residency Road area of Srinagar. The inspections formed part of a wider initiative aimed at improving food handling practices and ensuring strict compliance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
During the drive, the inspecting team conducted a detailed assessment of bakery operations, focusing on hygiene standards, ingredient quality, storage mechanisms, and the overall cleanliness of the premises. Officials carefully examined the conditions under which raw materials and finished products were being stored and handled, while also monitoring the sanitation levels maintained within kitchens, preparation areas, and display sections.
Apart from enforcement measures, the inspection drive also emphasized awareness and education among food business operators. Bakery owners and workers were given practical guidance on maintaining proper food safety standards to minimize health risks for consumers.
The Food Safety Officer instructed bakery operators on adopting Good Storage Practices, including proper segregation of raw materials, maintenance of recommended temperature controls, and safe storage of finished products to prevent contamination and spoilage. Officials stressed that improper storage conditions can significantly increase the risk of foodborne illnesses and compromise product quality.
Special focus was also laid on maintaining sanitary conditions within bakery premises. During short on-the-spot awareness sessions, the FSO highlighted the importance of cleanliness in food preparation zones, personal hygiene among workers, and regular sanitization of utensils, equipment, and working surfaces. Bakery staff were advised to ensure proper waste disposal systems and maintain pest-free environments to uphold public health standards.
Officials warned that strict legal action would be initiated against food business operators found violating food safety regulations. The department reiterated that non-compliance with prescribed norms under the Food Safety and Standards Act would invite penalties and other legal consequences.
The Food Safety Department further stated that such surprise inspections will continue across Srinagar in the coming weeks as part of its sustained effort to protect consumer health and ensure that citizens receive safe, hygienic, and wholesome food products.
Authorities urged food business operators to cooperate with inspection teams and proactively adopt best hygiene practices, emphasizing that food safety is a shared responsibility crucial for safeguarding public well-being.
