Maharashtra: Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Expands Food Safety Drive To Schools, Festivals, Pharmacies & Food Outlets; Warns Violators Of Stringent Action
Mumbai: Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on Wednesday warned that food-safety and hygiene violations will invite action across the state, whether detected in schools, pharmacies, manufacturing units, wholesale businesses, food establishments or even during religious festivals where food is distributed to devotees. The warning comes as the FDA intensifies…
Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has announced an expanded food safety drive targeting various sectors, including schools, festivals, pharmacies, and food outlets. The warning comes as the FDA intensifies its enforcement efforts across the state. Speaking to news agency IANS, Mundhe stated that the department would take action wherever violations were detected, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring food safety and hygiene across Maharashtra.
Mundhe revealed that the FDA has already implemented an order regarding the implementation of a balanced diet in schools. Nearly 68,000 schools across the state are covered by this initiative, focusing on promoting healthier food environments for students. The FDA has also held meetings with officers from the School Education Department to promote healthier lifestyles among students. Parents and teachers have responded positively to these efforts.
In addition to schools, the FDA is focusing on preventing the sale of addictive or prohibited substances near school premises. A permanent Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing food businesses and food distribution during festivals has been announced. This permanent SOP applies throughout the year and covers festivals across religions and regions, not just specific celebrations.
The framework will be in effect from 21 days before the festival until 30 days after the festival, with the FDA office responsible for enforcing food safety regulations during this period.
The FDA has also intensified its scrutiny in pharmacies, drug manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers, blood centres, and establishments in the cosmetics sector. Over 900 licenses have been suspended in these sectors, including pharmacies, manufacturers, blood centres, and cosmetics establishments. The FDA warns that organizations, groups, and food business operators found violating food-safety regulations or distributing unsafe food can face stringent action.
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