Srinagar, September 16:The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has intensified its food safety enforcement drive across the Union Territory, inspecting 229 hotels, restaurants and other food establishments for compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations framed under it.
According to an official communication issued by the Office of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, officials lifted 124 food samples during the inspections. The samples, covering milk and milk products, spices, edible oils and prepared food, have been sent to NABL-accredited laboratories for analysis.
The enforcement drive also detected violations related to prescribed sanitary and hygienic requirements at certain food establishments. Following the inspections, the department issued 38 Improvement Notices to Food Business Operators (FBOs), directing them to undertake corrective measures and ensure compliance with food safety standards.
The FDA further said that five cases were filed under Section 56 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The provision carries a penalty of up to ₹1 lakh.
In addition, 29 cases were compounded under Section 69 of the Act, with a total fine of ₹50,000 imposed in these cases.
The department has directed the concerned Designated Officers and Food Safety Officers to continue inspections and sampling of hotels, restaurants and other food establishments within their respective jurisdictions.
Officials have also been instructed to take appropriate action against violations in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations framed under it.
The FDA has advised Food Business Operators to strictly comply with requirements relating to food safety, sanitation and hygiene, storage, handling and preparation of food. It cautioned that violations would invite action under the applicable provisions of law.
Meanwhile, consumers have been urged to report suspected cases of unsafe or adulterated food through the toll-free helpline 104 or by contacting the Food & Drugs Administration through its official email.
The communication was issued by the Office of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, Drugs & Food Control Organization, J&K, and is dated September 16, 2026.
