PHDCCI backs crackdown on unhygienic meat supply chain

Srinagar, Aug 19: A delegation of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Kashmir chapter, led by Chairman A. P. Vicky Shaw, met Dr. Owais Ahmad, Director of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Kashmir, to deliberate on strengthening food safety and ensuring a hygienic supply chain for essential commodities.

A statement said that the delegation lauded the department’s recent crackdown on unhygienic dressed and minced meat in the Valley, calling it a vital step in protecting public health. “We strongly support the department’s action against malpractices, but the focus must now shift to creating a sustainable ecosystem for hygiene. From farm to fork, we need a framework that makes compliance easier for businesses while ensuring quality for consumers,” Shaw said.

During the meeting, PHDCCI presented a set of recommendations to institutionalise food safety. These included introducing strict accountability for hotels and restaurants, establishing clear guidelines for hygienic handling of commodities, and ensuring traceability in the supply chain. The Chamber also stressed the need to expand the scope of quality checks beyond meat to cover rice, sugar, milk, poultry, and even medicines.

Shaw further emphasised the importance of supporting local production through better infrastructure for storage, livestock rearing, and supply chain management, noting that J&K’s youth could play a pivotal role in building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Responding to the suggestions, Dr. Owais Ahmad assured the delegation of the department’s continued vigilance. “Inspections and market checks will continue without any lapses. This is about the health and safety of our people, and there will be zero tolerance. Businesses in the food supply chain must treat this as a religious obligation—no one will be allowed to compromise on health,” he said.

He clarified that the department has no objection to the supply of hygienic, branded products that maintain cold chains, carry batch numbers, expiry dates, ingredient details, and Halal certification where applicable.

Reaffirming its support, the PHDCCI said it would continue to partner with the government in promoting food safety and entrepreneurship, particularly by encouraging youth-led ventures in local produce and value-added food sectors.