SRINAGAR: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has found food safety violations at 24 canteens, messes and other food establishments operating in educational and healthcare institutions during a special inspection drive conducted across the Union Territory.
According to officials, 108 food business premises, including those in universities, medical and engineering colleges, hospitals, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) and Gujjar and Bakerwal hostels, were inspected during the drive.
The FDA collected 62 food samples for testing at National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)-accredited laboratories. Inspections focused on Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registration and licensing, hygiene and sanitation standards, medical fitness of food handlers, potable water availability, food storage and handling practices, pest control and waste management.
Officials said deficiencies detected during the inspections included operation without valid FSSAI registration or licence, inadequate pest control measures, shortcomings in the medical fitness of food handlers, improper food storage and handling, sanitation issues and the use of non-food-grade materials.
A total of 24 establishments were found operating without the required FSSAI registration or licence. Proceedings under Sections 55, 58 and 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 have been initiated against them, officials said.
As part of enforcement measures, 15 cases were compounded under Section 69 of the Act, resulting in fines amounting to ₹35,000. Three other cases were recommended for penal action under Sections 56 and 58 for alleged violations related to unhygienic food processing conditions and other food safety lapses.
The FDA said food safety officers have been directed to conduct follow-up inspections and ensure compliance with notices and directions issued during the drive.
Officials said inspections, sampling and enforcement activities would continue across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and safeguard public health. Consumers can report suspected unsafe or adulterated food through the toll-free helpline 104 or by emailing the FDA, officials added.
