Maharashtra FDA intensifies food safety checks for Diwali season
Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said officials are inspecting flour, edible oil, spices and snacks following reports of expired flour being sold.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has increased inspections of spices, edible oil, packaged flour and Diwali snacks, according to a report by Urban Acres. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe stated at an event in Pune on Sunday that the department received information regarding the sale of expired flour during the festive period.
Mundhe, a 2005-batch IAS officer, said officials across the state have been directed to examine flour used for poli and bhakri. The inspections cover retailers, wholesalers, dealers and semi-dealers to check for adulteration, expiry dates and other violations.
The department has already taken approximately 28,000 quintals of edible oil and nearly 20,000 quintals of spices in connection with suspected violations. Mundhe noted that the festive enforcement drive began 21 days early and follows a standard operating procedure.
Addressing claims from trader organisations and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut that officials were troubling businesses, Mundhe said traders should submit evidence if they are being harassed or asked for money. He added that a shop inspection alone does not prove wrongdoing.
The commissioner said the objective is not to harass traders but that strict action will continue against those violating rules or adulterating food. He also noted that the department lacks sufficient staff for the state's population and asked residents to report suspected adulteration.
The FDA will continue inspections of snacks and food businesses involved in manufacturing, storage, distribution and retail in the coming days.