Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Sept 11: Jammu and Kashmir’s Food and Safety Department has intensified inspections of meat and meat products across the Union Territory, seizing or destroying over 12,000 kilograms of meat, suspending 13 licenses, and filing 34 prosecutions, officials said.
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While talking to reporters here, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Smita Sethi, said, “Food Safety authorities have conducted 1,081 inspections of meat and meat products. Of 106 samples tested, seven were found to be unsafe. Over 12,000 kg of meat has been seized or destroyed, 34 prosecutions filed, and 13 licenses suspended. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report complaints through the toll-free number 104.”
She said the department carried out a comprehensive drive covering meat and paneer outlets across Jammu and Kashmir. Officials inspected 1,081 shops, including fresh meat shops, chilled and frozen outlets, and cold storages. Minor violations were detected in 268 meat shops.
From the 106 samples collected, seven were found unsafe due to the addition of synthetic colors harmful to human health. Prosecutions have been sanctioned in 66 cases, while 13 are currently under suspension. In eight concluded cases, fines totaling Rs 3.40 lakh were imposed on food business units (FBUs). The list of suspended licenses is available on the FDA website.
Sethi explained the difference between rotten meat and labeling defects. “Rotten meat is decomposed, putrid, and not edible. Labeling defects occur when packaging does not provide accurate information on the brand, type, date of packaging, or expiry. These are distinct issues. In some frozen meat, improper storage above minus 18 degrees Celsius caused decomposition. In others, packaging lacked proper labeling, which is also an offense.”
She added that the department recently intercepted a consignment at the airport with incorrect labeling. “Until species testing is completed, we cannot confirm the type of meat. It was frozen but lacked proper labeling. Our inspections are limited to where the products reach; other departments will handle further investigation,” he added.
She said the FDA operates two NABL-accredited and FSSAI-registered testing labs and 12 mobile food safety labs on wheels for immediate sample testing.
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