Key Development

Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar Collector N. O. Sukhaputra directed all permanent and temporary shops, as well as manufacturers and sellers of sweets and savouries during the Deepavali festival, to obtain a Food Safety license and display it prominently at their premises. Traders can apply for the license through FSSAI’s portal.

Ensure Hygienic Production and Sourcing

Manufacturers must buy raw materials only from licensed suppliers and prepare products in a clean, hygienic environment. They must avoid unapproved artificial colours and use permitted colours only in the allowed quantity. Manufacturers must use cooking oil only once and sell used oil for biodiesel production.

Provide Clear Labelling and Consumer Information

All sweet and savoury packs must show the manufacturing date, expiry date, and Food Safety license number. Manufacturers must also display details of the cooking oil and ghee used for consumer awareness. Traders should voluntarily display manufacturing and expiry dates for snacks sold at retail, even though it is not mandatory.

Maintain Worker Safety and Hygiene

Workers preparing and selling sweets and savouries must receive vaccinations against contagious diseases such as typhoid and jaundice. They must also wear gloves and kitchen caps during production.

Use Approved Packaging and Water

Manufacturers must pack sweets only in permitted plastic bags. They must also test the water used in production at laboratories of the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board or the Department of Public Health and keep certificates ready for inspection.

Inspect and Act on Complaints

Food Safety Department officials will inspect manufacturing units and shops, collect samples, and take strict action against those selling substandard products. Consumers can report quality-related complaints by calling 04562-225255 or 94440-42322.

Source: The Hindu