124 Food Samples Lifted for Laboratory Testing; 38 Improvement Notices Issued, 5 Cases Filed and 29 Compounded
Srinagar, September 16: The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu & Kashmir, has intensified food safety inspections across the Union Territory, carrying out inspections of hotels, restaurants and other food establishments to assess compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations framed under it.
According to an official communication issued by the Office of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, a total of 229 hotels and restaurants were inspected during the enforcement drive. Officials also lifted 124 food samples covering various commodities, including milk and milk products, spices, edible oils and prepared food, which have been forwarded to NABL-accredited laboratories for analysis.
During the inspections, violations related to prescribed sanitary and hygienic requirements were detected at certain food establishments. Following the observations, the department issued 38 Improvement Notices to concerned Food Business Operators (FBOs), directing them to take corrective measures and comply with stipulated food safety standards.
The FDA further stated that five cases were filed under Section 56 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, under which a penalty of up to ₹1 lakh can be imposed.
In addition, 29 cases were compounded under Section 69 of the Act, with a total fine of ₹50,000 imposed in these cases.
The department has directed the concerned Designated Officers and Food Safety Officers to continue inspections and sampling of hotels, restaurants and other food establishments within their respective jurisdictions.
Officials have also been asked to take appropriate action against violations in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations made under it.
The FDA has advised Food Business Operators to strictly adhere to requirements concerning food safety, sanitation and hygiene, storage, handling and preparation of food. The department cautioned that violations would be dealt with under the applicable provisions of law.
Meanwhile, consumers have been urged to report any suspected case of unsafe or adulterated food through the toll-free helpline 104 or by contacting the Food & Drugs Administration through its official email.
The communication was issued by the Office of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, Drugs & Food Control Organization, J&K, and is dated September 16, 2026.(KNC)
