In a major crackdown against food adulteration and hygiene violations, the Food Safety Department has intensified its drive across the Kashmir Valley following directions from the Secretary of the Health & Medical Education Department and under the supervision of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration J&K.
Over the past two days, officials have conducted multiple surprise inspections and raids in several districts. In Srinagar’s Safakadal and Parimpora areas, the enforcement teams seized nearly 2,500 kababs found to be processed using frozen meat containing non permitted food colours. The adulterated kababs were destroyed on the spot to prevent public consumption.
In addition, 150 kilograms of meatballs (Gushtaba) were also confiscated during the operation, while food samples were taken for detailed laboratory analysis and further legal proceedings.
In a separate raid in Nagbal, Ganderbal, officials destroyed around 250 kilograms of spoiled meat due to improper storage and unhygienic handling practices.
The crackdown has reportedly provoked sharp reactions from defaulting Food Business Operators (FBOs). In two instances—one in Kakapora (Pulwama) and another in Khandey Colony, Nawgam (Srinagar)—unscrupulous vendors were found dumping unsafe food at abandoned sites in a bid to evade legal action.
Meanwhile, two establishments in Ganderbal were sealed after officials found severely unhygienic food storage conditions during inspection.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy, the Food Safety Department warned all FBOs that strict legal action will continue against those flouting food safety regulations. Officials urged businesses dealing with high-risk food items to strictly adhere to the Food Safety and Standards Act, including compliance with hygiene protocols and labeling norms.
The department also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected food safety violations via the toll-free helpline 104.