Jammu’s sweet shops and restaurants flouting food safety standards
Consumers’ safety is indeed at stake with forthcoming festive season, given rising concerns over food safety and adulteration
Jammu: Despite the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) clear guidelines, many sweet shops and restaurants in Jammu are openly violating food safety standards. The rules, which have been in effect since October 1, 2020, require food establishments to display the manufacturing date and “use by” date on sweets and other perishable items.
Most sweet shops in Jammu are not following the FSSAI guidelines, instead displaying “Same Day” labels on sweets without specifying the manufacturing date. This lack of transparency can compromise consumer safety and health, particularly for those with food allergies or sensitivities. Establishments that fail to comply with FSSAI regulations can face fines and penalties. Food establishments must display the manufacturing date and “use by” date on sweets and other perishable items in blue, black, or white fonts. The labels must be clearly visible to customers, ensuring they can make informed choices about their food
These rules apply to small shops, big restaurants, and hotels, but they are not being followed anywhere. In Jammu’s areas such as Gandhi Nagar including Green Belt Park, Gole Market, Apsara Road, Aquaf Market, Channi Himmat, Trikuta Nagar, Nanak Nagar, Shastri Nagar, Sanik Colony, Raghunath Bazar, Pacca danga, kacchi Chowni, R.S. Pura, Satwari, Bishnah, Bari Brahmna, Nagrota, New Plot, Janipur, Rehari, Parade, Kanak Mandi, Moti Bazar, super bazar, Bawe, Lakhdata Bazar, Ambafla, and Bakshi Nagar, many big restaurants and well-known sweet shops are openly violating them.
According to the rules, it is mandatory to display the manufacturing date and the last date of use on every tray of sweets. This information must be written clearly in blue, black, or white font so that customers can read it easily. Even if the information is already written on the compartment, it must also be displayed on the tray of sweets, as this measure is meant to protect customers’ interests. These rules have been implemented to ensure that customers receive fresh and safe sweets. Any shop that fails to follow these orders can be fined.
The FSSAI guidelines aim to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses and ensure they have access to fresh and safe food. Food establishments that fail to comply with the regulations can be held accountable for any harm caused to consumers. Sweet shops and restaurants in Jammu must comply with FSSAI guidelines to ensure consumer safety and avoid fines and penalties. Authorities must take action to enforce FSSAI regulations and ensure that food establishments adhere to the guidelines.
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Consumers’ safety is indeed at stake with the forthcoming festive season, given the rising concerns over food safety and adulteration. Recent incidents in J&K have highlighted the risks associated with consuming contaminated food, especially during festivals when demand for sweets and delicacies surges. Sweets, dairy products, and savories are often adulterated with cheaper, harmful substances to meet the high demand. Contaminated food can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like stomach pain, vomiting, and even life-threatening conditions. Despite regulations, many food establishments fail to comply, putting consumers at risk. By being aware of these concerns and taking necessary precautions, consumers can enjoy a safe and healthy festive season.
