FSD conducts food safety enforcement drives

Shopian, Aug 27: The Food Safety department (FSD) Shopian conducted a targeted enforcement drive Wednesday across meat and mutton shops within the district.As per a statement issued here, the operation aimed at ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations, safeguarding public health and curbing violations in the meat, mutton trade.During inspection, 09 FBOs (Food Business Operators) were compounded under section 69 of FSS Act for violations observed during the drive. Four FBOs were recommended for action under the unsanitary conditions provisions of the Act in the court of the Adjudicating Officer (ADC) under food safety. Several shopkeepers were warned that continuing non-compliance would result in stricter consequences. Shopkeepers were urged to maintain high standards of hygiene and adhere strictly to all regulatory provisions, besides they were also cautioned against hanging carcasses outside the shop, to maintain proper market hygiene and regulatory compliance. The department reiterated its commitment to ensuring safe and wholesome meat products for consumers. Non-compliance with food safety standards carries consequences under the FSS Act, 2006, and may lead to penalties, closures and other legal actions. Consumers were encouraged to report any suspected food safety violations to help protect public health.