Srinagar, March 13: In the wake of concerns about the early ripening of fruits in the market, the Food Safety Department of Kashmir has deployed mobile testing labs across various parts of Kashmir.
The initiative aims to ensure the safety and quality of fruits available to the public, especially during the holy month of Ramadhan, when the consumption of watermelons sees a significant increase.
An official from the Food Safety Department told Rising Kashmir that the mobile labs have conducted extensive tests on watermelons, and the preliminary reports are reassuring. “We have found no traces of chemicals that could have been used to ripen the fruits prematurely”, he said.
The move by the Food Safety Department comes after a tweet from an oncologist went viral, suggesting that watermelons available in the market were artificially ripened using chemicals. This claim had raised alarm among consumers, as watermelons are a staple fruit during Ramadhan, often consumed during Iftar.
“The health of our community is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining stringent checks on food safety,” the official added.
He said that the mobile testing labs will continue their surveillance throughout Ramadhan to keep a check on the quality of fruits being sold in the markets.
‘Spot test conducted for artificial colours in watermelons’
Anantnag, March 13: Food Safety team Anantnag Wednesday tested more than 30 samples of watermelon on spot for artificial colours through Mobile Food Testing Van (MFTV) during intensive market inspection in view of the apprehensions surrounding on social media regarding availability of artificially ripened watermelon in markets during the holy month of Ramadan.
However, during on spot analysis none of the samples showed a positive test for artificial colours.
During the drive all the Food Business Operators dealing with Fresh Fruits and Vegetables at Fruit and Vegetable Mandi Ashajipora and Batengoo Anantnag were inspected and were warned regarding any kind of malpractice in the trade.
Moreover, the team procured 25 samples of fresh fruits and vegetables for detailed analysis in the Public Health Laboratory, J&K. In addition mass awareness was provided among consumers for detection of artificial colours through rapid testing at home.
The Food Safety authorities of the district have cautioned that regular inspections will continue in the district to maintain the highest standards of food safety and quality, and FBOs were sternly warned to comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006/Rules and Regulations there under.
