Pune: Officials of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday launched a special drive to curb cases of food adulteration during the Christmas and New Year period by drawing food samples from restaurants and hotels.
“The FDA has constituted teams to conduct surprise checks by visiting hotels, restaurants and roadside eateries across the city and rural areas between December 24 and 31. Our focus is to ensure that food quality is not compromised during the festive period when miscreants try out different methods to make quick money,” said S M Deshmukh, assistant commissioner (food), FDA, Pune.
Deshmukh said the food safety inspectors will be checking milk products, edible oils and other ingredients required for making cakes during the upcoming festive season. After the inspection, samples will be taken for laboratory tests.
“The officers would collect food samples only if they suspect adulteration. Strict action would be taken against those found involved in adulteration,” he said.
There are over 10,000 food business operators across the Pune district who have either sought licence or registration from the FDA. However, a sizeable number of food operators run their businesses without seeking mandatory licence or registration, Deshmukh said.
“Citizens should be cautious and only buy food items from licensed shops and take due receipts,” Deshmukh added.
The official also said the citizens can complain of suspected adulteration by calling the FDA’s toll-free helpline number 1800222365.
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