Trichy: Food safety officers conducted a special enforcement drive across Trichy district on Saturday, uncovering violations in five establishments out of 155 shops inspected. The operation was supervised by district designated food safety officer Jagadeesh Chandra Bose.
Focus on Banned Chemical Use
The drive specifically targeted the prevention of calcium carbide use, a substance banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, due to its potential health risks. Calcium carbide is often illegally used to artificially ripen fruits, posing serious health hazards to consumers.
Inspections and Seizures
As part of the enforcement, officials inspected fruit markets, wholesale mandis, warehouses, distribution centres, and cold storage facilities. During the checks, they seized and destroyed approximately 30 kilograms of spoiled mangoes and other fruits that were deemed unfit for consumption. Penalties were imposed on food business operators found violating the norms.
Sensitization and Warnings
Food business operators and traders were also sensitised on the procedures to be followed for safe and legal fruit ripening practices. They were warned that the misuse of chemical substances in food production and handling poses a significant threat to public health. Officials emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to ensure food safety for consumers.
