The Joint Commissioner (JC) of Visakhapatnam, Mayur Ashok, has imposed fines amounting to ₹2,80,000 on traders from seven restaurants in the district for selling adulterated food products. This action followed a comprehensive inspection drive led by the district food safety officials. Samples of milk, jaggery, oil, and pulses were collected from various restaurants and food outlets during the operation.
These samples were sent for laboratory testing, where adulteration was confirmed. The laboratory tests revealed the presence of harmful substances in the food products, posing potential health risks to consumers. For instance, milk samples contained synthetic additives, while jaggery and pulses showed traces of non-edible coloring agents.
Oil samples were found to have been blended with substandard materials, violating food safety norms. Acting swiftly, the Additional District Magistrate’s Court reviewed the evidence and imposed legal penalties on the erring traders on Friday. The fines ranged from ₹20,000 to ₹60,000 per trader, depending on the severity of the violations and the quantity of adulterated products seized.
JC Mayur Ashok emphasised the district administration’s commitment to ensuring public health and safety. He stated, “Adulteration of food products is a serious offense that endangers the well-being of consumers. We will continue to conduct surprise inspections and take stringent action against violators to uphold food safety standards in the distric.