Srinagar, Sep 26 (GNS): Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K has sealed an unlicensed packaged drinking water unit at IGC Lassipora in Pulwama district.
In a handout to GNS, FDA said that acting on a specific complaint, a Food Safety team of FDA Pulwama conducted an inspection of the premises of M/s Swat Industries, IGC Lassipora, engaged in the processing and packaging of drinking water under the brand name “ICY Wave”, officials said.
During inspection, the team found that the unit was operating without a valid FSSAI license for processing and packaging of drinking water. It was further observed that the FSSAI licence number 1102547000051, displayed on the bottles, had been obtained for wholesale/retail business of fruits and vegetables and did not cover the processing or packaging of drinking water.
As part of the enforcement action, the team lifted two samples of packaged drinking water for analytical examination. In view of the violation, the premises were sealed and operations suspended. A Show Cause Notice was also served upon the person-in-charge/representative of the firm, requiring an explanation within three days.
Officials said that Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, mandates licensing of Food Business Operators, as applicable under the Act. Further, Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water have been classified under the High Risk Food Category, warranting enhanced regulatory oversight and compliance by manufacturers and processors.
Operating a food business requiring a license without obtaining the requisite license attracts penal action under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which provides for a penalty that may extend to ₹10 lakh. Action has been initiated for filing a complaint/prosecution under the relevant provisions of the Act before the competent court, they said.
FDA J&K reiterated that all Food Business Operators are required to obtain and maintain a valid FSSAI license/registration appropriate to the nature of their food business and shall continue to undertake strict enforcement measures against violations to safeguard public health.(GNS)
