Srinagar, Sept 12 (JKNS): The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K, has initiated action against M/s Salasar Food Services operating at the NIFT Budgam campus after a follow-up inspection found expired food articles, synthetic food colour and multiple violations of prescribed food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards.
FDA J&K, as per news agency JKNS, has initiated action against M/s Salasar Food Services, operating at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Budgam Campus, for violation of prescribed food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards. The action follows a follow-up inspection conducted on September 11, 2026, by the Food Safety Officers under the supervision of the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Budgam. During the inspection, several serious deficiencies and violations were detected at the food service premises.
The inspection team found expired food articles, including White Cheese Dressing and Fresh Paneer, being used in the preparation of food. Synthetic food colour “Arun Orange Red” was also found at the premises.
Further deficiencies observed during the inspection included dustbins without proper lids, non-compliance with the RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) protocol, absence of an RO water purification system with UV treatment, inadequate protective clothing for food handlers and use of aluminium utensils/equipment not conforming to prescribed food-contact requirements.
Taking cognizance of the violations, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Budgam, has issued a Show Cause Notice to the Food Business Operator.
Further proceedings shall be undertaken under the relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Rules and Regulations framed thereunder, as applicable.
Under Section 56 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, preparation or handling of food under insanitary or unhygienic conditions is punishable with a penalty which may extend to ₹1 lakh. Appropriate action under Section 58 shall also be taken in respect of other contraventions, including those relating to expired food articles with a penalty which may extend to ₹2 lakhs.
The Food & Drugs Administration has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to strictly comply with the prescribed food safety and hygiene standards and ensure that only safe, wholesome and hygienically prepared food is served to consumers.
FBOs have also been advised to ensure proper labelling and storage of food articles, immediate removal of expired products and exclusive use of food-grade utensils and equipment for food preparation and storage.
FDA,J&K has further stressed upon strict compliance with the RUCO protocol for collection, handling and disposal of used cooking oil through authorized/empanelled agencies, and cautioned FBOs against its un-authorized reuse. (JKNS)
