DC Anantnag calls for crackdown on unsafe frozen meat practices

Anantnag, Aug 11: Following the directives of Deputy Commissioner (DC) S F Hamid and in line with the enforcement strategy of the Food Safety Department, a meeting-cum-awareness programme was held today at the Office Chamber of the Assistant Commissioner, Food Safety, Anantnag.The session was attended by Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in the frozen meat and meat products sector in the district. The primary aim was to reinforce their legal obligations regarding sourcing, handling, and storage of meat, as well as to ensure compliance with statutory provisions.During the programme, FBOs were sensitised on the importance of sourcing meat only from licensed and approved suppliers and maintaining traceability records for each procurement batch. They were also briefed on adhering to cold chain requirements outlined in Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, including maintaining specific temperature ranges to prevent microbial growth and spoilage.The participants were further educated on hygienic handling practices, prevention of cross-contamination, and the use of safe food contact materials, as mandated under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.The enforcement team highlighted the health risks associated with improper storage and handling of frozen meat, such as bacterial contamination, food poisoning, and zoonotic diseases. In response, the FBOs assured full compliance with all statutory guidelines, departmental instructions, and safety standards.Deputy Commissioner S F Hamid directed the authorities to intensify crackdowns on unsafe practices related to frozen meat. The public is advised not to panic, as the Food Safety Department is actively monitoring the market through surprise inspections and enforcement actions to ensure that only safe and wholesome meat products are available for consumers.