Srinagar, Oct 09: Continuing its efforts to ensuring safe and hygienic food for consumers Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K, has conducted enforcement and awareness activities among street food vendors across Jammu Division, combining regulatory action with targeted awareness initiatives to promote compliance with food safety standards and protect public health.
During the drive, 95 street food vendors were inspected, 11 cases were compounded and fine of ₹16,000 were imposed for violations of prescribed food safety requirements. In addition, 19 cases were recommended for adjudication under Sections 56 and 58 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, before the competent Adjudicating Officers, i.e., the respective Additional Deputy Commissioners of the concerned districts. 17 awareness sessions were organized to educate vendors on safe food-handling practices, personal hygiene, sanitation and statutory compliance.
During inspections, violations involving unhygienic food-handling practices and the use of prohibited or unsuitable materials for food packaging and serving were observed. In a specific enforcement action, 10 kg of newspapers and 20 kg of snacks were destroyed on the spot by the concerned food business operators, and a fine of ₹4,000 was imposed in connection with the violations detected. Further regulatory action was initiated, wherever warranted, in accordance with the applicable provisions of law.
The awareness activities focused on the importance of maintaining personal hygiene, keeping food vending premises clean, preventing contamination, using only food-grade materials for packaging and serving, and ensuring proper storage and handling of food. Street food vendors were also sensitised to their legal responsibilities under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the importance of adopting hygienic practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, reiterated that ensuring food safety requires both strict enforcement and sustained awareness among food business operators. Street food vendors have been urged to maintain prescribed sanitary and hygienic conditions and ensure that all food offered for sale is safe and wholesome. FDA, J&K, will continue its coordinated inspection, awareness and enforcement activities across the Union Territory, with appropriate legal action against violations of food safety norms.
Consumers are encouraged to actively participate in safeguarding public health by reporting suspected food adulteration, unsafe food or unhygienic food-handling practices email at [email protected].
