Anantnag, July 5: The Food Safety Department on Saturday carried out a comprehensive inspection of community kitchens (Langars) at the Nunwan Base Camp in Pahalgam to ensure that pilgrims undertaking the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra are provided with safe, hygienic, and wholesome food.
The inspection was conducted under the directions of the Commissioner, Food and Drugs Administration, Jammu and Kashmir, as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety measures during the annual pilgrimage.
During the inspection, officials examined food preparation areas, sanitation and hygiene practices, the quality and sourcing of raw materials, storage facilities, availability of potable drinking water, personal hygiene of food handlers, and the use of food-grade utensils and equipment.
To promote safe food handling practices, the Food Safety Team distributed protective gear, including face masks, head covers, and gloves, among Langar workers. Officials advised volunteers and food handlers to wear the protective equipment while preparing and serving meals to minimize the risk of contamination.
The team also conducted awareness sessions for Langar management committees and food handlers, emphasizing the importance of adhering to prescribed food safety and hygiene standards throughout the pilgrimage.
In a significant step to enhance food quality surveillance, the department has deployed two Mobile Food Testing Vans across Anantnag district. The vans will conduct on-the-spot testing of food served to pilgrims, enabling prompt quality checks and ensuring compliance with food safety norms.
Officials said that regular inspections and surveillance drives will continue throughout the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to safeguard public health and ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations.
The department appealed to all Langar organizers and food handlers to cooperate with inspection teams and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation, contributing to the safe and smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage.
