Key Update

Ahead of Diwali, the Madurai district administration has ordered all sweet makers and food vendors to comply with food safety rules. Acting on directives from the Chennai Food Safety Commissioner, officials have begun inspections across the district. District Designated Officer (Food Safety) G. Selvaraj warned that violators will face legal action.

Vendors Must Hold Valid Licences

All manufacturers and sellers, including those operating temporary stalls, must obtain valid licences or registrations under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, through the FSSAI website. Selvaraj urged vendors to use ingredients only from licensed sources and to prepare food in clean, fly-free environments.

Officials Ban Harmful Additives and Oil Reuse

The department has banned unauthorised artificial colours and reminded vendors to use only approved food colours within permitted limits. Officials also instructed vendors not to reuse cooking oil once it cools. Every packaged sweet and gift box must clearly display the manufacturing and expiry dates along with the FSSAI licence number. Officials reiterated that the ban on single-use plastics remains in force, even during the festive rush.

Teams Conduct City-Wide Inspections

Food safety officers have already launched inspections and raids across Madurai to check compliance. They plan to continue surprise checks throughout the festive season to ensure citizens get safe and hygienic Diwali sweets.

Source: The Times of India