Following the directions of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, market inspections are being continuously conducted in Srinagar City to ensure sale of quality food items to the consumers.
Accordingly, acting promptly on a specific tip-off, the Food Safety Department carried out a targeted raid on a wholesaler's premises in Saraf Kadal, Srinagar.
The raid, conducted in response to an anonymous complaint, uncovered an alarming stockpile of expired food items, including milk and milk products valued at approximately Rs. 55,000. Shockingly, the seized stock also include items that had expired as far back as 2018.
During the inspection led by Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Srinagar, it was observed that expired goods were stored alongside fresh supplies, reflecting a disregard for fundamental food safety practices and consumer health.
When questioned, the Food Business Operator (FBO) at the premises failed to provide any satisfactory explanation on the presence of expired products.
The Food Safety team seized the expired items to prevent them from reaching consumers and contributing to potential health hazards.
As per the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act), the case has been forwarded to the Adjudicating Officer (Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar) for further legal proceedings. The swift and decisive action reinforces the Department’s commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
The Food Safety Department reiterated its instructions to all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to ensure expired food items must be stored in a designated quarantine area, separate from fresh supplies.
Any expired items found exhibited for sale will face strict penalties under the relevant provisions of the FSS Act.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious practices involving the sale of expired or substandard food items to the Food Safety Department. Public cooperation plays a pivotal role in upholding food safety standards and protecting community health.