Food Safety Department Kupwara Intensifies Drive Against Substandard Food Items – Alfaaz – The Words

Kupwara: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, the Food Safety Department has carried out around eight extensive inspection drives across the district in recent days. The drives were led by Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Rafi Ahmad Dar, along with Tehsildar Kupwara, a police team and other officers.

During the inspections, a large number of restaurants and eateries were checked. No deteriorated meat or chicken was found in most establishments. However, a consignment of kababs and ristas brought from Budgam district was seized and later destroyed. Samples of these items have been sent to the Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad, for detailed analysis.

In a separate action, a fine of ₹8,000 was imposed on two butchers in Handwara on August 9 for selling deteriorated meat. Around 50 kg of the unfit meat was confiscated and destroyed on the spot.

The department stated that such inspection drives will continue to ensure the availability of safe and hygienic food for the public.

All restaurants, hotels, and other food business operators are hereby informed not to sell any frozen chicken, meat, or related items that pose health risks to the public. Any person found dealing in such unsafe or substandard food items will face strict legal action and prosecution in the court of law. Selling misbranded, substandard, or unsafe food can attract penalties of up to ₹5 lakh, and in certain cases, ₹3 lakh as per the nature of violation.

The Food Safety Department Kupwara reiterates its commitment to ensuring the availability of safe, hygienic food for the public and will continue such drives across the district.