Key Update

The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has issued notices to 24 packaged drinking water units and ordered two units to shut down after inspecting 45 establishments across the state. The inspections uncovered unhygienic conditions, regulatory violations, and cases of misbranding.

Inspections Uncover Hygiene and Licensing Violations

The department conducted the inspections on Thursday as part of its efforts to improve food hygiene and storage standards under the directions of Health and Family Welfare Minister U T Khader. According to an official statement, inspectors found several violations, including unhygienic manufacturing conditions, missing medical certificates for staff, the absence of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licences, labelling defects, and missing pest-control certificates. The department issued notices to 24 units over these violations.

FSDA Seizes Misbranded Water and Orders Closures

The department seized misbranded packaged drinking water from units in Mysuru and Davangere. It also ordered two units to close, including an establishment in Mulbagal, Kolar district, due to unhygienic conditions. Khader reiterated the government’s commitment to drinking water quality, stating that authorities would not compromise on standards and would take legal action against violators. He also confirmed that the department would continue conducting regular inspections.

Department Issues Advisory for Consumers

The FSDA has urged consumers to check the FSSAI licence number, ISI mark, manufacturing date, and seal integrity before purchasing packaged drinking water. Consumers can also scan the QR code provided by the department to report any irregularities or concerns about packaged drinking water.

Several Packaged Water Brands Among Inspected Units

The department inspected several packaged drinking water establishments, including Bisleri International, Aquafina, SLV Aqua King, Goodew, Nireta, Neeram, FM Aqua, SM Aqua, Siya Packaged Drinking Water, Rishabhadri Minerals, Shivalingeshwara Minerals, Deeksha Industries, Akashwin Foods, Mountain Aqua, Shivaganga Foods and Naturey Beverages.

FSDA Continues Enforcement Across Food Businesses

The latest inspection drive follows another operation conducted by the FSDA two weeks earlier, when officials inspected 186 sweet-making units across the state. The department issued notices to 25 establishments for unhygienic conditions and improper storage practices ahead of the Dussehra and Diwali festive season. It also imposed penalties of ₹7,000 on two business operators.

In recent months, the department has stepped up inspections across various food businesses, including ice cream manufacturing facilities, five-star hotels, prominent restaurants, fast-food outlets and private clubs.

Source: The Indian Express