The Food Safety Department in Tamil Nadu’s Erode District has launched several proactive measures to ensure the public has access to safe food. These include awareness campaigns, enhanced food safety inspections, quality checks, and efforts to repurpose used cooking oil into biodiesel. The department has also cracked down on the sale of banned tobacco products like gutka and pan masala. By mandating food establishments to obtain licences from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Erode has become a model district for food safety enforcement. Over the last four months, the district has seen a 31% rise in basic registrations and a 19% increase in State-level licences.

Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) Initiative

The FSSAI’s Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) project aims to convert used cooking oil into biodiesel. This year, the district collected 94 metric tons of used oil, successfully converting 64 metric tons into biodiesel, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

Crackdown on Banned Tobacco Products

Erode has taken strong action to enforce the ban on tobacco products like gutka and pan masala. The district has sealed 879 shops for selling these prohibited items, reinforcing efforts to reduce tobacco-related health risks.

Awareness Against Polythene Use

The Food Safety Department is addressing the widespread use of polythene wrappers in restaurants, bakeries, and stores. Through awareness campaigns and fines for violators, the department is promoting environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic.

Ensuring Hygiene in Food Production

Food safety officers are actively inspecting food establishments to ensure they meet hygiene standards and prevent bacterial contamination. Businesses failing to comply face penalties. The public is encouraged to report any food safety concerns via WhatsApp, email, or the TN Food Safety Consumer App. Reports should include details such as the location, issue type, and relevant receipts. Complaints related to labelling errors or poor-quality bottled water are also welcomed.

Source: The Hindu