Health Dept warns food traders against selling adulterated items

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, January 21

Health officials have issued an appeal to food sellers to buy dairy products only from reliable manufacturers. They said that in case of discovery of adulterated and synthetic products at a sale point, the owner, too, is liable for punishment.

The Health Department has also asked the dairy and poultry units to use good quality feed for animals and not to use injections on animals without guidance of a veterinary expert. The appeal has been issued as part of the fight against the sale of adulterated and substandard food products.

District Health Officer Dr Lakhbir Singh Bhagowalia urged the residents to shun the use of loose food ingredients, especially masala and chill. He said there was no guarantee of loose products and customers might end up buying an adulterated ingredient.

“We also appeal to residents not to use unpacked mustard oil as there are reports that a chemical is being sold instead of oil which is harmful for humans,” he said.

At the same time, the department has asked the fruit sellers not to use stickers on fruits as adhesives are harmful. The department has also asked marriage palaces and restaurants to ensure cleanliness at the cooking area. Bhagowalia said kitchen areas at these places are often found unhygienic and strict action would be taken in future.

The department has also instructed firms selling packed water to get registered and obtain licences. “In the past raids, we have found many illegal firms selling water bottles without any treatment plant. The government has issued instructions to take action against such firms and none will be allowed to operate without complying with the norms,” he added.