Lucknow: FSDA Launches Massive Crackdown On Adulterated Sweets Ahead Of Diwali

The demand for sweets soaring ahead of Diwali and with this the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has launched a special campaign to crack down on adulterated food products and protect public health.

During the festive season, especially Diwali, the sale of items like sweets, milk, paneer, and savoury snacks (namkeen) increases severalfold. Taking advantage of this, adulterators often use substandard ingredients to meet the high demand.

In recent investigations, the FSDA found several food samples that not only failed quality tests but were classified as "unsafe." One such case involved intercepting a supply of substandard paneer from the western region. Assistant Commissioner VP Singh stated that the FSDA is actively identifying and targeting locations where sweets are suspected of being made with poor-quality ingredients.

Multi-Pronged Inspection Strategy

To combat this issue, the department has implemented a comprehensive strategy:

Raid Teams: Separate teams have been formed to conduct raids and inspections at shops, markets, and production facilities.

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Targeted Surveillance: The department has identified and is monitoring business owners with a prior history of involvement in adulteration.

Mobile Testing: Mobile testing vans have been deployed to conduct on-the-spot checks of food quality.

Sector-wise Inspections: Food inspectors have been assigned to conduct thorough, sector-wise inspections of all food establishments.

Additionally, milk markets (mandis) are being kept under special surveillance. Teams have also been stationed at border areas and toll plazas to inspect milk and khoya arriving from other districts to ensure the integrity of raw materials.

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