Food Safety Dept intensifies efforts to ensure quality food for Amarnath pilgrims

Jammu, July 12: The Food Safety Department, Jammu and Kashmir, has intensified its surveillance and enforcement activities to ensure food safety during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.A statement issued here said that the exercise is being conducted under the directions of Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, and Secretary, Health and Medical Education, J&K, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, whose guidance has supported field mobilisation and monitoring. Commissioner, Food and Drugs Administration, Smita Sethi, inspected hygienic conditions of langars and food service areas at key base and transit camps in Jammu Division, reaffirming the department’s commitment to serving pilgrims safe and hygienic food. In view of the increased footfall and operation of food business operators (FBOs), the department deployed Food Safety Officers, Food Analysts, and Mobile Food Testing Vans from Lakhanpur to Baltal and Pahalgam. These vans equipped with testing kits, conduct daily on-spot food analysis and raise awareness among langar operators and food handlers. During the first week of the Yatra, the department achieved 215 registrations issued to langar operators and vendors, 171 inspections conducted, 910 food samples tested via mobile vans, 77 training and awareness sessions conducted, and 30 kg of substandard food items seized and destroyed. Advisories outlining hygiene, storage, preparation and waste management protocols have been issued. The department has appealed to all FBOs to cooperate fully. For grievances, the toll-free helpline 104 is available. The department reiterates its commitment to maintaining food safety throughout the Yatra.