KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Mar 11: The Food Safety Team Srinagar carried out an extensive market inspection drive across several major commercial hubs of the city, including Karanagar, Balgarden and the bustling Residency Road area, in a bid to ensure strict compliance with public health protocols and food quality standards.
The inspection drive formed part of the department’s continued efforts to safeguard consumer health and strengthen regulatory oversight over food businesses operating in Srinagar. Officials said the initiative was aimed at assessing the hygiene standards maintained by food establishments and ensuring that Food Business Operators (FBOs) adhere strictly to the provisions laid down under the Food Safety and Standards Act and the regulations framed thereunder by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
During the market checks, the food safety officials inspected various food establishments, including eateries, bakeries, grocery outlets, and other food-related businesses. The inspection teams examined food handling practices, storage conditions, sanitation levels, and the overall compliance with food safety guidelines. The officials also interacted with shop owners and workers, sensitizing them about the importance of maintaining hygienic conditions in food preparation and storage areas.
The Food Business Operators were issued categorical instructions to align their operations strictly with the rules and regulations governing food safety. The authorities emphasized that all FBOs must ensure full compliance with the legal framework mandated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, which is designed to protect public health by regulating the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products.
Special emphasis was laid on maintaining high levels of sanitation and hygiene within food establishments. Officials directed that business premises must be kept in superior sanitary condition at all times in order to prevent contamination of food items. The inspection teams observed that poor sanitation practices can significantly increase the risk of food-borne diseases, thereby posing serious health hazards to consumers.
The authorities also highlighted the importance of personal hygiene among workers involved in food handling and processing. Food handlers were instructed to maintain strict personal cleanliness while working, including wearing clean clothing, keeping nails trimmed, and ensuring proper hand hygiene. The officials stressed that maintaining personal hygiene standards is crucial in preventing the spread of harmful bacteria and contaminants in food products.
During the drive, the Food Safety Team further encouraged the business operators to upgrade their food storage and waste disposal systems in accordance with modern food safety standards. Shop owners were advised to store food items in clean and temperature-controlled environments and ensure that waste materials are disposed of in a safe and hygienic manner to prevent contamination and pest infestation.
Officials reiterated that the department would continue to intensify such inspections across Srinagar to ensure that food businesses operate in strict compliance with safety norms.
They warned that any lapse in maintaining hygiene standards or any violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act would invite strict legal action.
The authorities made it clear that violators could face heavy penalties, including substantial fines, cancellation or suspension of business licenses, and other legal consequences as per the provisions of the Act.
The Food Safety Team urged all Food Business Operators to cooperate with the regulatory authorities and maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene in order to protect public health and build consumer confidence in the food market.
Officials also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing food items and report any unhygienic practices or suspected food safety violations to the concerned authorities so that timely action can be taken.
