The Kashmir Dialogues
Clean Hands, Safe Food: Officials Warn of Action for Non-Compliance Under Food Safety Act
Srinagar, July 12 (JKNS): The Food Safety Department Srinagar on Saturday carried out surprise inspections across Habkadal, Babdamb, and Munawarabad areas as part of its ongoing drive to enforce hygiene standards among street food vendors and ensure public health safety.
Officials from the department told news agency JKNS that the campaign aims to both monitor food quality and educate vendors on essential hygiene practices. The exercise focused on ensuring hand hygiene, safe storage, and prevention of food contamination.
“Street vendors were sensitized about washing hands frequently, especially before handling food and after contact with waste or raw items,” an official said. “They were also instructed on maintaining proper storage temperatures and avoiding cross-contamination.”
The team emphasized the use of clean utensils, covering food, and using potable water for cooking and cleaning purposes. “Clean surroundings are crucial for safe food,” the official added.
The inspections were carried out under the supervision of Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, Administrative Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, and Commissioner of Food Safety, Smita Sethi.
Officials said that such sensitization-cum-enforcement drives will continue in coming days and any violations will be dealt with strictly under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
“We are committed to fostering a culture of food safety and vendors must adhere to basic standards to protect public health,” the department said. (JKNS
Sheikh Mudasir
