6000 kg decomposed meat seized in Jammu

Jammu, Feb 18: In continuation of its unwavering commitment to safeguard public health and ensure consumer safety, on the directions of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, on the eve of Ramadan , the enforcement team of the Food Safety Organisation (DFCO), Jammu Division, conducted a surprise inspection at the premises of M/s India Fish Company, Warehouse, Jammu and seized & destroyed decomposed and unsafe 5 quintal meat & 6000kg raw fish, under supervision of Smita Sethi, Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration Jammu & Kashmir.

The inspection was led by the Deputy Commissioner, Food Safety Division, Jammu, along with a team of Food Safety Officers duly assisted by District Administration, J&K Police and Jammu Municipal Corporation.

During the inspection, the team unearthed a massive consignment of suspected unsafe fish, including approximately 150 cartons of raw fish measuring around 6000 kgs that had been transported by road from Andhra Pradesh on 10/02/2026 without adequate refrigeration and proper temperature control. Surveillance samples of the fish were drawn for analysis. Preliminary findings indicated that the consignment was unsafe for human consumption.

Additionally, approximately 500 kgs of decomposed meat were seized on the spot at the cost of the Food Business Operator (FBO). The meat was found to be rotten, spoiled, deteriorated, and emitting a putrid and foul smell, rendering it unfit for human consumption.

Legal action has been initiated under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act). The FBO has been booked for violation of the Prohibitory order issued in the matter and other sections of the Food Safety Act ,2006 and Regulations of 2011, including maintaining insanitary conditions, storage and supply of unsafe food etc. The licence of the establishment stands liable for cancellation. Further action has been taken under Sections 56 and 58 of the FSS Act for gross violations, including failure to maintain the mandatory temperature chain.

Commissioner FDA J&K, Smita Sethi, reiterated that the Legal action has been initiated under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act)Minister H&ME Department Madam Sakina Itoo is monitoring the actions of the department has given clear directions of zero-tolerance against food adulteration, unsafe and insanitary practices. She has strictly directed all Enforcement Officers of DFCO J&K to intensify inspections across all districts and divisions to curb such malpractices and ensure strict implementation of the FSS Act, 2006, in letter and spirit.

The Department has expressed serious concern over the increasing instances of adulteration and improper storage of frozen non-vegetarian products, particularly during the summer season, which pose significant health risks, including food poisoning, hepatitis, cancer, and other life-threatening diseases.

The enforcement drive will continue across markets at block, district, and divisional levels to ensure the availability of safe, pure, and quality food products including meat, fish, milk, milk products, sweets, juices, and other consumables special vigilance shall be maintained during Holy month of Ramadan. Prohibition Orders have already been issued directing food business operators to maintain proper refrigeration for milk and non-vegetarian items, and strict compliance is being monitored.

During the inspection, the team also conducted on-the-spot awareness sessions for Food Business Operators and consumers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining temperature control for frozen products and strictly avoiding the use of unpermitted colours in food items.

The Department appeals to the general public to remain vigilant. In case of any suspected adulteration or unsafe food practices, especially concerning frozen meat, raw fish, or other non-vegetarian products, citizens are requested to immediately inform the Department on Toll-Free Number 104 for prompt action and redressal.

The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Food Safety Jammu, remains firmly committed to protecting consumer health and will continue its campaign against adulteration and unsafe food practices until this menace is eradicated.