Overview

With temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius and heat waves persisting in Erode district in Tamilnadu for three weeks, demand for cool refreshments, especially fresh juices, has surged. People increasingly consume fresh and packaged juices, watermelon, pearl millet porridge, buttermilk, tender coconut, and cold beverages to stay hydrated. Many areas have also seen the emergence of temporary juice stalls.

Food Safety Department Steps Up Inspections

In response to the growing demand, the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has proactively deployed three committees to monitor juice shops. According to J. Thanga Vignesh, Designated Officer of the Food Safety Department, each committee consists of four food safety officers who are actively inspecting juice vendors. Moreover, they check for substandard ingredients and other violations while also issuing notices for necessary corrective measures. Additionally, Vignesh stated, “We have planned a training program to educate juice sellers on maintaining quality standards.”

Health Risks from Contaminated Juices and Ice

Concerns persist over fruit mixtures and other juices made from low-quality or rotten fruits, chemical additives, contaminated water, and inedible ice. Sugarcane juice vendors commonly use ice, yet many consumers remain unaware of whether it is edible ice or industrial ice produced with non-purified water.

Safety Guidelines for Vendors

The department also inspects juices manufactured by cottage industries and guides producers on safe practices. Emphasizing the importance of proper storage, Vignesh urged vendors to keep fruits and juices away from direct sunlight and register with the department to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Consumers can report food-related complaints via WhatsApp at 94440 42322, J. Thanga Vignesh added.

Source: The Hindu