Key Update

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Jammu and Kashmir conducted 13,944 routine inspections in 2025 to curb food adulteration and ensure hygienic food across the Union Territory. In addition, food safety officers carried out 1,423 risk-based inspections to target high-risk areas and establishments. During inspections, the FDA collected 10,620 food samples, surpassing the annual target of 7,080. Commissioner Smetha Sethi said this achievement represents more than 150% of last year’s target, reflecting the department’s strong commitment to consumer safety.

Improvement Notices and Compliance Enforcement

To maintain infrastructure and hygiene standards, the FDA issued 943 Improvement Notices to Food Business Operators (FBOs) under Section 32 of the FSS Act, exceeding the target of 625 notices.

Prosecutions and Penalties Uphold Food Laws

Under the civil adjudication process (Section 30) of the FSS Act, 2006, the FDA initiated 718 prosecutions, of which 671 cases have been decided, resulting in penalties totalling Rs 84.33 lakh. The Act empowers the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food to ensure safe and wholesome consumption.

Source: The Tribune