Ensuring Food Safety in Srinagar: Pre-Diwali Market Check by Food Safety Department
By Meer Altaf
October 31, 2024:A team of Food Safety Officers, led by Yameen ul Nabi, Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, conducted a comprehensive market inspection across Srinagar city today. The purpose of this initiative was to uphold the quality and safety of sweets and dry fruits available for purchase as Diwali approaches. In addition to verifying food quality, the team also focused on educating vendors about best food safety practices, aiming to ensure a safer festive season for residents and visitors alike.
Objective of the Drive
The primary goal of the market check was to safeguard public health by verifying the quality of food items that are typically consumed in large quantities during the Diwali festival. With rising demand for sweets and dry fruits, it becomes essential to monitor these products closely to prevent any compromises in quality that could lead to foodborne illnesses.
Market Inspection Highlights
The Food Safety team visited numerous shops and stalls across Srinagar, conducting detailed inspections of various food items, with a special emphasis on:
Sweets: Analyzing the quality of ingredients and production practices to avoid any contamination or adulteration.
Dry Fruits: Verifying freshness and storage conditions, as improper handling could affect their safety and quality.
Additionally, food samples were collected for laboratory testing to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Educating Vendors on Food Safety
A critical component of the inspection was to educate vendors on maintaining high standards of food safety. Officers provided guidance on:
Proper storage conditions
Hygienic preparation and handling practices
Importance of using quality ingredients
Regular cleaning and maintenance of preparation areas
These educational efforts aimed to raise awareness and encourage vendors to adopt best practices that would benefit both their business and consumer health.
Statement from Yameen ul Nabi
Yameen ul Nabi, Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, expressed the department’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy festive season for Srinagar’s citizens. He remarked, “Our team is dedicated to ensuring that citizens celebrate Diwali with safe and healthy food options. We will continue to monitor the market and take strict action against violators.”
Actions Against Violators
The Food Safety Department has affirmed that strict measures will be taken against any vendors found violating food safety regulations. Penalties and legal actions will be enforced to deter unsafe practices and maintain high food quality standards.
Conclusion
This inspection drive demonstrates the Food Safety Department’s proactive approach to protecting public health during the festive season. Through rigorous checks and vendor education, the department aims to ensure that all food products sold in Srinagar meet the necessary safety standards. The initiative will not only help prevent health risks but also foster trust in the food industry, allowing citizens to enjoy Diwali with peace of mind.
As the festive season continues, the Food Safety Department remains vigilant, prioritizing the health and well-being of the community.
