Key Development

The Punjab government has expanded its Food Safety on Wheels initiative across all districts to tackle food adulteration and promote safe food practices. These mobile food testing vans are now actively screening food samples for adulteration, especially in commonly consumed items like milk, paneer, ghee, spices, fruits, vegetables, sweets, and water. Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh addressed a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, along with top health officials, and encouraged the public to use these mobile labs to test their food regularly.

Food Safety on Wheels Deployed Statewide

Since the Aam Aadmi Party government assumed office, the health department has collected 18,559 enforcement samples and 12,178 surveillance samples. The mobile food testing vans have also screened over 13,000 food samples so far. The minister instructed FDA officials to fully utilise these vans not just for testing, but also for public outreach, especially among students. He emphasised the need for strict enforcement, transparent functioning, and faithful implementation of all food safety policies.

Government Boosts Enforcement and Public Awareness

The government has taken a firm stand against food adulteration and plans to take strict action against violators. Officials believe that pure food leads to better physical and mental health. So far, the state has issued 3.17 lakh licences and registrations to food business operators. The health department also aims to intensify public education campaigns on nutrition and promote healthy eating habits under the Eat Right, Stay Healthy initiative. The government sees safe and nutritious food as essential to building a healthier, stronger Punjab.

Source: The Times of India