Srinagar, May 18: The Food Safety Wing of the Drugs and Food Control Organization, Jammu & Kashmir, has launched a special inspection drive across hotels and government residential facilities accommodating employees during the ongoing bi-annual Darbar Move period, officials said on Sunday.
According to officials, the drive was initiated on the directions of the Commissioner, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K, to ensure that employees residing in government-arranged accommodations are provided safe, hygienic, and quality food.
Special inspection teams, constituted under the supervision of Assistant Commissioners (Food Safety), carried out checks at multiple establishments, including government residential quarters at Sempora, Pampore, and TRC Srinagar, as well as hotels leased by the Estates Department for lodging move employees.
Officials said a total of 14 establishments were inspected during the drive.During the inspections, Food Business Operators (FBOs) engaged by the Estates Department were instructed to strictly comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations.
Inspection teams particularly stressed adherence to hygiene and sanitation norms prescribed under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Regulations.
The officials directed operators to ensure the supply of fresh and hygienic meals and warned against the use of synthetic food colours or any unsafe ingredients in food preparation.
The teams also sensitised food handlers and operators on safe food handling practices, proper kitchen sanitation, storage of raw materials, and maintenance of personal hygiene.
“The department remains committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring safe and wholesome food for employees staying in government accommodations during the move period,” an official said.
Authorities added that similar inspection drives will continue across various locations in the coming days to monitor compliance and strengthen enforcement of food safety standards.
