'Onam squad' to set up food testing labs near check posts in the state

The minister also warned that action will be taken against those who are found selling food products without authorized license or registration.

Thiruvananthapuram: Food safety department will deploy ‘Onam squads’ to set up food testing labs near check posts in the state to inspect the quality of food products brought in from other states. Health Minister KK Shailaja stated that special squads have been formed to ensure the quality of the food products that come to the state during Onam.

The service of mobile testing labs will be made available in Amaravila (Thiruvananthapuram), Aryankavu (Kollam), Kumily (Idukki), Walayar, Meenakshipuram (Palakkad) and Manjeswaram (Kasaragod) to check the quality of milk, fish, meat, fruits and vegetables brought from other states.

Apart from this, the squad will also ensure if the employees of local street stalls are wearing head caps and masks, whether social distancing is followed in these places and whether it provides sanitizers and hand washes for the use of customers, said the health minister.

Food safety department will carry out strict inspections along with Ksheera Development Board to stop poor quality milk from entering the state.KK Shailaja also stated that these special squads will remain active in the state till September 5.

Milk, jaggery, coconut and other edible oils, ghee, lentils, fruits and vegetables that reach the Onam market will be inspected. Also, the manufacturing and packing units of bakery products, milk, ice cream, coconut oil will be inspected by the food safety squad, informed the health minister.

The minister also warned that action will be taken against those who are found selling food products without authorized license or registration. Public can call the toll free number 1800 425 1125 to inform about adulterated food products.