Srinagar, Sept 27 (JKNS): The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K, has sealed a packaged drinking water processing unit at Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) Lassipora in Pulwama after it was found operating without a valid FSSAI licence for processing and packaging drinking water.
As per news agency JKNS, acting on a specific complaint, a Food Safety team of FDA, J&K, Pulwama, conducted an inspection of the premises of M/s Swat Industries, IGC Lassipora, Pulwama, engaged in the processing and packaging of drinking water under the brand name “ICY Wave.”
During the inspection, the team found that the unit was operating without a valid FSSAI licence for processing and packaging of drinking water. It was further observed that the FSSAI licence number 1102547000051, displayed on the bottles, had been obtained for wholesale/retail business of fruits and vegetables and did not cover the processing or packaging of drinking water.
As part of the enforcement action, the Food Safety team lifted two samples of packaged drinking water for analytical examination. In view of the violation, the premises were sealed and operations suspended. A Show Cause Notice was also served upon the person-in-charge/representative of the firm, requiring an explanation within three days.
Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, mandates licensing of Food Business Operators, as applicable under the Act. Further, Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water have been classified under the High Risk Food Category, warranting enhanced regulatory oversight and compliance by manufacturers and processors.
Operating a food business requiring a licence without obtaining the requisite licence attracts penal action under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which provides for a penalty that may extend to ₹10 lakh. Action has been initiated for filing a complaint/prosecution under the relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, before the competent court for operating the food business without the mandatory FSSAI licence.
The FDA, J&K, reiterated that all Food Business Operators are required to obtain and maintain a valid FSSAI licence/registration appropriate to the nature of their food business. The Department shall continue to undertake strict enforcement measures against violations of food safety laws to ensure compliance and safeguard public health. (JKNS)