Pune News: FDA Intensifies Vigilance Against Food Adulteration During Festival Season

The FDA is ramping up efforts to combat food adulteration during the busy festival season, which includes Ganeshotsav, Dussehra, Diwali, and Christmas. Ulhas Ingawale, joint commissioner at the FDA headquarters, emphasized that the rise in food adulteration is driven by financial incentives and increased consumer demand. To address this, enforcement will follow the Food and Safety Act 2006 and the Rules and Regulations 2011.

The FDA will focus on preventing contamination from unhygienic food production, improper storage, and handling practices. Regular inspections and enforcement campaigns will be conducted to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

In Pune, Suresh Annapure, joint commissioner of the FDA, announced that the drive will pay special attention to milk and dairy products, such as khoya and sweets. Suspicious items will be seized, and samples tested in laboratories. Enforcement will be rigorous, with repeated checks to uphold safety standards.

The initiative will also involve mandals to ensure that ‘prasad’ and other sweets are made under hygienic conditions to prevent food poisoning. Citizens are encouraged to report any adulteration by calling the toll-free number 1800222356.

A meeting with food business operators in Pune will be organized to educate them on legal provisions and hygiene practices. This will cover production, storage, transportation, and sale of sweets in sanitary conditions. Additionally, the FDA will use food safety on wheels for sample testing, operator training, and consumer awareness.