Report

Starting May 2, Kerala’s Health Minister, Veena George, will launch a month-long initiative called Operation Lifeline, which will include extensive food safety inspections ahead of the monsoon season. The Health Department is taking strong preventive measures to curb the spread of diseases commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water during monsoon.

Food Safety Inspections Across the State

The Food Safety Department will conduct rigorous inspections at food establishments throughout the state to guarantee that consumers receive safe food. As per food safety regulations, businesses must serve food that meets hygiene standards. Authorities will take strict action against those using unsafe ingredients like improperly handled mayonnaise. Both the Food Safety Department and the Health Department will enforce these standards under the Food Safety and Standards Act and the Public Health Act.

Heat Increases Risk of Spoiled Food

Due to the hot season, food is more prone to spoilage. Authorities urge people to avoid consuming food that shows any change in taste or smell. Businesses must clearly mark dates and times on food products. Workers in food establishments must carry valid health cards, ensuring their fitness for handling food. Inspections will happen without notice at food outlets, fish and meat shops, markets, and checkposts. Special checks will also occur at senior citizen homes, child care centers, and other similar facilities.

 Ensuring Compliance with Food Safety Regulations

Under the Food Safety Quality Act, food businesses must obtain food safety registration or licenses in accordance with established standards. Authorities will take strict actions against establishments that do not comply with these requirements.

Cold Drink and Water Safety Inspections

With the rise in demand for cold drinks and bottled water during the hot months, authorities will conduct widespread inspections to ensure safety. These inspections will cover ice cream production units, bottled water manufacturing and distribution centers, cold drink facilities, and sales outlets in tourist areas. Business owners must ensure that the water and ice used in their products are clean and safe. Similarly, drinking water and water used in chutneys or curries at hotels must be purified.

Special Guidelines for Storage and Transport

Authorities do not allow businesses to store plastic bottles of drinking water or cold drinks in direct sunlight or transport them in uncovered vehicles. At festivals or fairs, vendors must sell cold drinks, bottled water, ice candy, and ice cream in safe conditions to protect consumers’ health.

Coordinated Effort for Statewide Inspections

The Food Safety Commissioner will coordinate inspections, with food safety officers leading the efforts across the state. The State Task Force will actively participate, and mobile testing labs will be used to ensure effective enforcement of safety standards.

Source: Kairalinews