Up to Rs 10 lakh penalty: Ladakh warns FBOs over food safety violations
The Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh, through the Department of Health and Medical Education, has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to ensure strict and continuous compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and applicable rules and regulations.
In a circular issued by Commissioner of Food Safety, UT Ladakh, Dr. Laltinkhuma Franklin, all FBOs have been advised to maintain prescribed standards of food safety, hygiene, sanitation and licensing. The UT currently has 428 FSSAI Licence holders and 8,355 FSSAI Registration holders.
FBOs have been directed to maintain valid FSSAI licences/registrations, comply with hygiene and sanitary requirements, implement appropriate Food Safety Management Systems, ensure proper food storage and stock rotation, and adhere to prescribed labelling requirements. They have also been cautioned against manufacturing, storing, distributing or selling unsafe, sub-standard, misbranded, adulterated, contaminated or expired food.
The Department has emphasised that violations will invite action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, with penalties depending on the nature and gravity of the offence. Penalties may extend up to ₹10 lakh for certain violations, while serious cases involving unsafe food may also attract imprisonment and fines.
The Food Safety Department will adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards deliberate and serious violations affecting public health. Enforcement measures may include inspections, sampling and analysis, seizure of unsafe food, prohibition of sale, suspension/cancellation of licences, statutory penalties and prosecution, wherever warranted.
All FBOs have been directed to review their food safety and hygiene practices immediately and rectify deficiencies. Food Safety Officers will conduct inspections and verify compliance, with serious or repeated violations dealt with strictly in accordance with law.
The Department has advised all FBOs to treat food safety as a continuous statutory responsibility and ensure compliance at all times.