Report

Kochi Corporation’s mobile lab, which aims to detect food adulteration, has remained non-functional for the past one and a half years. Officials cite the absence of competent personnel to collect and test food samples as the primary reason for the delay. Recently, three people fell ill and were hospitalised after consuming food at a restaurant in Pallimukku. This incident has intensified public worries over rising food adulteration cases in the city.

Decisions to Activate Lab Remain Unimplemented

In a January 8, 2024, meeting, Kochi corporation officials decided to form a special team to run the mobile lab, schedule tests at least three times a week, and seek help from the Food Safety Department for weekly sample testing. Despite these decisions, the corporation has yet to implement them. The corporation has not appointed an analyst to collect food samples, delaying lab operations further. Officials explain that they lack the expertise to conduct food tests and have requested support from the Food Safety Department, which has not cooperated so far.

Promising Talks Amid Departmental Resistance

Health Standing Committee Chairman T. K. Asharaf says they have held talks with the Food Safety Commissioner, who agreed to provide staff once a week. The Kochi corporation has conducted interviews to hire an analyst, bringing the lab closer to becoming operational. However, Food Safety Department officials report they have received no official directive from headquarters to allocate staff for this role. They also point to staff shortages and their ongoing regular inspections as reasons for their limited support.

Source: The Times of India