Government issues comprehensive food safety guidelines, imposes heavy fines for violations
Friday, 18 October 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Amid a series of alarming reports involving food contamination, including incidents of spitting in food and the alleged presence of human waste in consumables, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at ensuring higher standards of food safety across Uttarakhand. Under the new regulations, violators will face hefty penalties ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs one lakh, the FDA commissioner R Rajesh Kumar said. He stated that the new measures require food businesses across the State to adopt strict hygiene and safety protocols. Mandatory steps include issuing photo identification cards to all employees, installing CCTV cameras to monitor activities and ensuring clear labelling for meat products served at restaurants, hotels and roadside eateries, with a mandatory disclosure of whether the meat is Halal or Jhatka. Food handlers will have to wear protective gear such as face masks, gloves and headgear while preparing or serving food.
Kumar stated that these measures are crucial for upholding hygiene and preventing contamination. Kumar said that FDA has issued detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that include severe penalties for non-compliance. Recently reported incidents of food contamination constitute a direct violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the FDA has reiterated that all food business operators must strictly adhere to licensing conditions and hygiene standards. The updated regulations aim to ensure that establishments uphold the cleanliness and quality expected under the law, he added. The FDA’s enforcement measures extend to barring employees with contagious diseases from working in food preparation, storage or distribution. Business operators are mandated to keep records of their employees’ health status, supported by medical certificates. In an effort to maintain hygiene at the workplace, practices like smoking, spitting or engaging in other unhygienic activities are strictly prohibited.
The guidelines stress that food businesses must issue photo ID cards to all workers, which must be displayed prominently, helping ensure that all staff members are easily identifiable. Also, all licensed businesses must display a readable copy of their license in a prominent place within the premises. The installation of CCTV cameras is now a mandatory requirement for all food businesses, including roadside eateries, to enhance monitoring and ensure compliance with safety standards. Kumar said that these comprehensive guidelines aim to protect public health in Uttarakhand, fostering an environment where food safety is prioritised and hygiene standards are strictly enforced. As the festive season draws near, the administration is determined to ensure that food served across the State meets the highest levels of safety and quality, providing residents with peace of mind about the food they consume, he added.
