Sifting for safety: Health department collects 11 food samples across Ludhiana

Ludhiana: In an effort to ensure the availability of safe and hygienic food to the public, the Ludhiana food safety team conducted an extensive sampling drive across multiple locations in and around the city.Sharing details of the drive, district health officer Dr Sandeep Singh, informed that their team collected five food samples from areas including BRS Nagar, Sunet, and Pakhowal Road. "The samples comprised commonly consumed items such as shakkar, milk, paneer, mozzarella cheese, and ice cream, which are frequently monitored due to their high consumption and susceptibility to adulteration," Singh said.He further stated that in an additional inspection carried out in Machiwara Sahib and along Kohara Road, the team collected six more samples, including masur dal, vegetable oil, paneer, sugar-boiled confectionery, jaggery, and mustard oil."These items were selected as part of routine surveillance and targeted checks to verify compliance with prescribed safety standards," he added. Singh emphasised that all 11 samples have been duly sealed and sent to an accredited laboratory for detailed analysis.Highlighting the regulatory framework, the official reiterated that all actions are being undertaken in accordance with the guidelines of the . He noted that FSSAI mandates strict adherence to hygiene, quality standards, and labeling norms for all food business operators. Any deviations, including adulteration, misbranding, or substandard quality, will invite strict action under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act."Further action in the present case will be taken based on the laboratory reports as per established legal provisions," Singh added.Singh also appealed to food business operators to maintain proper sanitation, ensure the use of permitted ingredients only, and comply with licensing and registration requirements as prescribed by FSSAI. "Consumers have been encouraged to remain vigilant, check for proper labeling, and report any suspected cases of food adulteration to the authorities," he appealed.The Ludhiana food safety department asserted that it remains committed to protecting public health through regular inspections and enforcement drives.