FSSAI Orders 100% Inspection of Packaged Drinking Water Units in Maharashtra
FSSAI Orders 100% Inspection of Packaged Drinking Water Units in Maharashtra
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed a complete inspection of all packaged drinking water units across Maharashtra. The move is aimed at strengthening public health protection through strict food safety checks and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
The FSSAI issued the order during a review meeting held on Friday, June 27. The statutory body stressed that packaged drinking water facilities must undergo thorough inspections to ensure the water being sold is safe for consumption. The directive comes amid growing concerns over food and water safety standards, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
FSSAI CEO G Kamala Vardhana Rao, who led the meeting, underlined the importance of conducting compliance checks twice a year at all such facilities. He pointed out that consistent monitoring is essential to make sure manufacturers follow hygiene and safety regulations, which directly impact public health.
During the meeting, Rao also highlighted the need to improve hygiene practices among street food vendors. With street food being widely consumed across Maharashtra, ensuring it is prepared and sold under clean conditions is a key part of the authority’s food safety efforts. He urged local authorities to promote training and awareness for vendors about maintaining cleanliness and following safe cooking practices.
In a related development, Maharashtra’s Food Safety Commissioner Rajesh J Narvekar shared that the FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right Place of Worship’ certification has been awarded to the Swamy Samarth Trust and the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. The certification recognises places of worship that promote safe and hygienic food practices. These institutions were honoured for their efforts in maintaining food safety and ensuring that prasad and meals served to devotees meet hygiene standards.
The recent inspection order is part of a wider push by the FSSAI to tighten safety rules and promote awareness among food and water producers. By enforcing stricter checks and encouraging good practices at all levels, from packaged water plants to street vendors, the authority aims to protect consumers and build confidence in the food safety system.
