FDA tightens noose on food safety violations, destroys 115 Kg paneer

Continuing its enforcement action, FDA J&K today seized and destroyed 115 kg paneer from the premises of a Food Business Operator, namely Vikas Sharma for failure to maintain the prescribed temperature-control conditions during the transportation and handling of the perishable dairy product. The consignment, reportedly brought from Kathua District, was found to have been transported without maintaining the requisite temperature-controlled conditions. The seizure was carried out by the Food Safety Team Jammu with the assistance of Police Station Nowabad, Jammu, FDA said today.

Paneer, being a highly perishable dairy product, requires proper temperature control throughout its transportation, storage and distribution to maintain its quality and ensure its safety for human consumption. Any lapse in maintaining the prescribed conditions may compromise the safety and suitability of the product.

The FSSAI registration of the erring Food Business Operator was suspended in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder.

Subsequently, the entire seized quantity of 115 kg of paneer was destroyed through the Jammu Municipal Corporation at its designated dumping site, following due procedure, FDA said.

The FDA, J&K, reiterated that strict enforcement action will continue against Food Business Operators found violating prescribed food safety standards. All operators dealing in milk and milk products have been directed to ensure proper temperature control during transportation, storage and distribution and to strictly adhere to the requirements prescribed under the food safety laws.

Consumers are also urged to remain vigilant and report any instance of the sale or distribution of unsafe or adulterated food through the official email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.