Key Update 

The Food Safety Department in Kerala will deploy special squads in every district from next week to ensure the quality and safety of food items during Onam. Inspections will be held both during the day and at night. Officials will closely monitor edible oils, ghee, jaggery, milk and milk products, payasam mixes, grains, fruits, vegetables, and chips. Minister Veena George directed strict checks at roadside eateries.

Action Against Coconut Oil Adulteration

In the past month, 1,014 inspections in Kerala seized nearly 17,000 litres of fake coconut oil. Authorities collected 469 samples, served notices to 25 establishments, and filed cases against 331. The department fined 1,613 outlets a total of ₹63 lakh. Legal action has also been taken against several manufacturers selling coconut oil under fake brand names.

Source: Mathrubhumi