Rs 35000 realised from erring FBOs for violating norms

Srinagar, July 13: In order to ensure safe and hygienic food to consumers, a special drive has been initiated by the Department of Food Safety in Kashmir Division.In a statement issued here, the enforcement officers from intelligence cum legal cell and concerned districts inspected various paneer manufacturers in Village Nowgam of district Pulwama besides butchers  and restaurants in main town Baramulla.In the pursuit, various Food Business Operators (FBOs) were found violating sanitary and hygienic requirements of Food Safety and Standards Act and an amount of Rs 35000 was recovered as fine from them.Moreover, some non-food grade utensils were destroyed on the spot and food business operators were directed to maintain high standards of hygiene within their premises.The food business operators were also directed not to sell any stale or perished food items which shall attract strict action as per the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act which may include imposition of heavy fine and imprisonment also.Also, an awareness program for butchers was  conducted in main town Baramulla in which they were made aware about the Good Hygienic Practices to be adopted within their premises.The drive against processing and sale of food articles under unhygienic conditions shall be intensified in coming days.Commissioner Food and Drugs Administration Smita Sethi has impressed upon the enforcement officers of the department to be vigilant and to adopt proactive approach for  ensuring safe and wholesome food to consumers.In case of any complaint, consumers can dial toll free number 104.