Task Force on Food Safety formed in Kohima to monitor food quality

DIMAPUR — The District Level Advisory Committee (DLAC) for Safe Food and Healthy Diets held a meeting on Wednesday at the conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Kohima, chaired by DC B Henok Buchem.

During the meeting, the house resolved to form a Task Force on Food Safety, comprising representatives from various stakeholders and concerned departments. According to a DIPR report, the committee will monitor and coordinate activities related to food quality and public health.

The meeting discussed the importance of maintaining food quality in hotels, restaurants, and other food establishments. Members stressed the need for proper hygiene in kitchens, safe storage and good quality of food, and strict monitoring of expiry dates to prevent tampering or sale of expired items.

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It was pointed out that good food practices cannot be compromised, as they have a direct impact on the health of the community. The meeting also discussed the requirement for water certification.

It was stressed that every hotel, restaurant, and food business must possess valid water testing certification to ensure that the water used for cooking and drinking purposes is safe for consumption. This certification is mandatory for all food establishments. Enforcement of this requirement must be taken seriously, with regular testing and renewals.

Another matter of concern raised was the presence of illegally imported food products being sold without proper labelling, including the absence of importer details and the mandatory Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) tag. Members agreed that such practices pose serious risks to consumers since these items escape standard safety checks.

The meeting also resolved to carry out large-scale awareness campaigns for consumers, vendors, hotels, and restaurants to promote food safety and highlight both the responsibilities of food business operators and the rights of consumers.