SRINAGAR, MARCH 27: Acting on a specific tip-off, the Food Safety Department conducted a targeted raid on a wholesaler’s premises in Saraf Kadal, Srinagar, on March 26 at 11:15 AM. The raid, carried out in response to an anonymous complaint, led to the discovery of a significant stockpile of expired food items, including milk and milk products valued at approximately 55,000. Shockingly, some of the seized items had expired as far back as 2018.
The inspection was led by Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, Srinagar, along with Food Safety Officers Syed Dilpazir, Hakeem Adil, Fayaz Ahmad, and Khalid Bashir. During the inspection, it was observed that expired goods were stored alongside fresh supplies, demonstrating a blatant disregard for food safety practices and consumer health. When questioned, the Food Business Operator (FBO) at the premises failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for the presence of expired products.
To prevent these items from reaching consumers and posing potential health risks, the Food Safety team seized the expired stock. The case has been forwarded to the Adjudicating Officer in Srinagar for further legal proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act). This swift action underscores the department’s commitment to ensuring public health and enforcing food safety regulations.
The Food Safety Department has reiterated its directives to all Food Business Operators (FBOs) that expired food items must be stored in a designated quarantine area, separate from fresh supplies. Any expired items found exhibited for sale will result in strict penalties under the FSS Act.
Consumers have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious practices related to the sale of expired or substandard food items to the Food Safety Department. Public cooperation is essential in upholding food safety standards and protecting community health.