Unit operating without license at Abhanshah HMT found under unsanitary conditions; officials warn strict action against violators of Food Safety Act.
SRINAGAR: The Food Safety Department in Kashmir has seized a large quantity of substandard snacks during a routine inspection in Srinagar. The crackdown, part of an ongoing drive against unsafe food production, took place at a local manufacturing unit operating in the Abhanshah area of HMT.According to officials, a team of Food Safety Officers led by the Assistant Commissioner Food Safety, Srinagar, found the unit running without a valid license and maintaining highly unsanitary conditions. During the inspection, authorities seized around five quintals of Namkeen snacks, including popular varieties such as katlam and finni. Samples were collected for laboratory analysis, and the entire facility was sealed on the spot to halt further production.Officials said a formal complaint under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Rules and Regulations of 2011 would soon be submitted before the competent court.Commissioner Food and Drug Administration, Smitha Sethi, warned all food business operators to strictly comply with food safety norms. She emphasized that violation of the law would invite stern legal action.Members of the public have been encouraged to remain vigilant and report instances of food adulteration or unhygienic food preparation. Complaints can be registered through the department’s toll-free number 104.