Report

To strengthen its food safety infrastructure, the Telangana government will open three new food safety laboratories in Mahbubnagar, Warangal, and Nizamabad. Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha announced the plans on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, during the Food Safety: Ensuring Quality through Compliance program at the Indian Institute of Health and Family Welfare in Hyderabad.

Addressing the Growth of Food Business Operators (FBOs)

Minister Narasimha pointed out the rapid increase in the number of Food Business Operators (FBOs) in Telangana over the last fifty years. “Currently, Telangana has only one operational food safety laboratory, located in Nacharam, which has been serving the state since 1971. Over the years, the number of food establishments in both Hyderabad and the rest of the state has surged. The Nacharam lab, the only one focused on food safety, is no longer enough to meet the growing demand,” the Minister said.

Expanding Food Safety Infrastructure

In addition to the new labs, the Minister unveiled plans to appoint Food Safety Officers in all 33 districts. He explained that each district will have an office supervised by the District Collector, staffed with two Food Safety Officers and one designated officer to oversee food safety enforcement. The public will also be encouraged to report food safety issues directly to these officers.

Imposing Stricter Penalties for Serious Violations

Minister Narasimha acknowledged the rapid rise of restaurants and food establishments and assured that the government would increase the number of employees in the Food Safety Department to meet the growing need for inspections. “Our goal is not to penalize business owners but to educate them on the importance of cleanliness and sanitation. However, we will issue harsher penalties for serious violations,” he said.

Commissioner of Food Safety Reinforces Dual Approach

R.V. Karnan, Commissioner of Food Safety, emphasized the government’s dual focus on both enforcement and education. He explained that food safety inspections in Hyderabad and other areas not only identify violations but also educate business owners about food safety regulations and the importance of maintaining high standards.

Recognizing Compliant Businesses

As part of the initiative, the Minister distributed quality certificates to restaurant owners and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) certificates to street food vendors who have demonstrated a commitment to food safety and cleanliness.

Source: The Hindu