Jammu Food Safety Officer Fines Violators ₹1.79 Lakh for Substandard, Misbranded Items

FSSA
FSSA

APRIL 25: In a continued push towards ensuring public health and strict adherence to food safety standards, the Adjudicating Officer under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), Jammu, has slapped a cumulative fine of ₹1.79 lakh on various commercial establishments for violating key provisions of the Act.The penalties were imposed following rigorous inspections and enforcement drives carried out across the district. Manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers were found guilty of selling substandard and misbranded food products, posing a serious risk to consumer safety.

Acting on the findings of food safety officers and lab reports, the adjudicating authority took decisive action against the offenders under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The cases involved sale and distribution of products that failed to meet the required quality and labeling standards.Officials from the Food Safety Department emphasized that these violations not only breach legal mandates but also endanger public health. They reiterated that there will be zero tolerance towards those who compromise on food quality. Regular surveillance, inspections, and sampling are being carried out to monitor compliance among food business operators (FBOs).

The department has issued a stern warning to all stakeholders involved in the food supply chain, urging them to strictly follow food safety norms. Adherence to proper hygiene, storage conditions, labeling, and quality checks are essential to prevent legal action and protect consumer trust.Consumers have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unhygienic food practices. Citizens can lodge complaints or report violations by calling the toll-free helpline number 104 or sending a WhatsApp message to 9484002101.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) continues to collaborate with state-level enforcement wings to create a safer food ecosystem. In Jammu, such enforcement actions are expected to continue in the coming weeks, sending a clear message to erring businesses.This action forms part of a broader effort by the Jammu & Kashmir administration to raise the bar for food quality and ensure that food served or sold to the public is safe, properly labeled, and within the prescribed standards.