Madurai: More than 50,000 food business operators (FBO) in Madurai district are operating without license, which is mandatory under Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), said designated officer for food safety, Madurai district, Dr S Somasundaram.
Addressing a large number of food business operators representing various sectors at a one-day orientation program on Wednesday, he explained about the legal aspects of FSSAI rules and regulations. The participants were sensitized on the importance of taking license, fair business practice and health issues consumers might undergo if the food is not prepared hygienically.
Officials say that of the estimated 75,000 FBOs in Madurai district, 12,000 FBOs have taken only registration certificate, which can be obtained by paying Rs 100, instead of a license. Only hawkers, whose sales is less than Rs 3,000 per day are allowed to use registration certificate. Those involved in production, processing, selling of food materials, including roadside eateries, hotels and grocery stores have to obtain license, said the food safety officials.
“When unintentional mistakes are found with the FBOs, they will attract lesser punishment if they have license. They will face stringent action like closure of shops and hefty fine and if they do not have a license,” Somasundaram said. Excessive use of colours can cause kidney problems to consumers. City hospitals have been witnessing increase in dialysis cases and other problems. Government Rajaji Hospital saw at least 4,611 dialysis cases in the month of October, 2019 alone, Somasundaram added.
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