Patna: Food safety teams are conducting inspections across Bihar to check the quality of food products and compliance with food safety standards.
According to the Health Department, laboratory testing found two food samples unsafe and sub-standard in Aurangabad and Jehanabad. The department has approved prosecution against the concerned establishments under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The inspections were carried out on the directions of Food Safety Commissioner-cum-Health Secretary Kumar Ravi.
Formalin Found In Paneer In Aurangabad
In Aurangabad, officials collected a paneer sample from M/s Chanchala Sudha Dairy Booth near Nagar Thana.
The sample was sent to the Joint Food and Drug Laboratory at Agamkuan, Patna, for analysis. According to the food analyst’s report, it was found to be unsafe and sub-standard.
Laboratory testing detected the presence of formalin, while the fat content was also found to be below the prescribed standard.
The department has approved prosecution for alleged violation of Section 26(2)(i) of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Under Section 59(i), the offence carries a provision for up to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 3 lakh, according to the department.
Adulterated Coriander Powder In Jehanabad
In Jehanabad, officials collected a sample of coriander powder from M/s Gopal Kirana Store in Raja Bazaar.
The sample was sent to the Joint Food and Drug Laboratory in Patna, where it was found to be unsafe and sub-standard.
The laboratory report detected Butter Yellow, an unauthorised oil-soluble synthetic colour, along with starch in the coriander powder.
Prosecution has been approved against the concerned establishment under Section 26(2)(i) of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The case may attract Section 59(i), which provides for up to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 3 lakh.
Patna Sweet Shop Also Inspected
In Patna, food safety officials conducted a surprise inspection at Pramod Confectionery and Food Products in Kumhrar Toli, Bahadurpur Road.
The inspection was carried out in the presence of the Patna City Sub-Divisional Officer and a food safety officer.
Officials collected four statutory samples of khoya, ghee, rasgulla and kaju barfi and sent them to a food laboratory for testing.
Further action will be taken after the laboratory reports are received.
Officials also issued directions regarding the partition between the store and processing area, employee dress code, hygiene and sanitation, and FIFO/FEFO compliance.
Water Plant Inspected In Aurangabad
The food safety team also inspected Puja Corporation in Erka village, Amba, Aurangabad, to check compliance with food safety standards.
The establishment was found closed from the front, while its rear door was open. Officials reported a foul smell, excessive flies and unsanitary conditions inside the premises.
Empty bottles, preforms, burnt material and workers’ clothing were also found. Officials recorded photographic evidence and prepared an inspection report.
The department said further action would be taken in accordance with applicable food safety standards.
Food Safety Checks To Continue
The Health Department said it is regularly carrying out inspections, sample collection, laboratory testing and legal action in cases involving food quality, adulteration and violations of food safety standards.
The ongoing campaign covers different types of food establishments and is aimed at ensuring the availability of safe, hygienic and quality food products for residents across Bihar.
