Srinagar, Oct 09 (GNS): The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir has intensified its street food safety enforcement drive across Jammu division, inspecting 95 vendors and initiating action against violations.
In a hand out to GNS, the FDA said that 11 cases were compounded with a fine of Rs 16,000 imposed during the drive, while 19 cases have been recommended for adjudication under Sections 56 and 58 of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 before the respective Additional Deputy Commissioners.
Officials said 17 awareness sessions were also organised to educate street food vendors about safe food-handling practices, personal hygiene, sanitation and compliance with statutory requirements.
During inspections, violations related to unhygienic food handling and use of prohibited or unsuitable materials for packaging and serving were observed. In one action, 10 kgs of newspapers and 20 kgs of snacks were destroyed on the spot by the concerned food business operators, while a fine of Rs 4,000 was imposed for the violations detected.
The awareness programme focused on maintaining personal hygiene, keeping vending premises clean, preventing contamination, using food-grade packaging material and ensuring proper storage and handling. Vendors were also sensitised about their legal responsibilities under FSS Act, 2006 and the need to adopt hygienic practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The department said coordinated inspection, awareness and enforcement activities will continue across the UT with appropriate legal action against violators.
Consumers have been asked to report suspected food adulteration, unsafe food or unhygienic handling practices to the department at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.(GNS)
