KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, March 30: Taking swift cognizance of a viral video that triggered widespread public concern, the Food Safety Department on Monday launched a prompt enforcement action against a tea blending unit found operating under highly unhygienic conditions.
The video, which has been widely circulated across social media platforms over the past few days, purportedly showed workers engaged in tea blending practices in a manner that raised serious questions about food safety standards. The footage appeared to depict tea leaves being handled and processed directly on the floor without adherence to even basic hygiene protocols, sparking outrage among consumers.
Acting without delay, a team of Food Safety Officers carried out a raid at the identified location linked to the video. Officials said that upon inspection, the allegations highlighted in the viral clip were found to be largely accurate and deeply concerning.
“During the inspection, it was observed that tea blending and packing activities were being conducted on the floor in an extremely unhygienic environment,” a senior official from the department stated. “Such practices are in gross violation of food safety norms and pose a direct threat to public health.”
The inspection team further noted that the unit was using non-food-grade equipment during the blending process. Experts warn that such materials can contaminate food products with harmful substances, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses and long-term health complications among consumers.
In view of the serious violations, authorities immediately sealed the processing area where the tea blending operations were being carried out. The closure will remain in force until further orders, pending a detailed investigation and compliance review.
To ascertain the quality and safety of the product being distributed, the department has collected two samples of tea from the premises—one loose and one packaged. These samples have been sent to a laboratory for detailed analysis, and further action will be determined based on the test results.
Officials reiterated that the Food Safety Department maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards violations that endanger public health. They emphasized that all Food Business Operators (FBOs) are legally bound to comply with hygiene and safety standards as laid down under the Food Safety and Standards regulations.
“All FBOs are directed to strictly adhere to prescribed hygiene practices, ensure the use of food-grade equipment, and maintain clean processing environments,” the official added. “Any deviation from these norms will invite stringent action under relevant provisions of the law.”
The department has also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any such violations to authorities, assuring that every complaint will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
The incident has once again highlighted the critical need for regular inspections and strict enforcement to safeguard consumer health, especially in food processing sectors that directly impact daily consumption.
