In a sweeping effort to safeguard public health and restore trust in what people consume daily, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has significantly strengthened its surveillance across Jammu & Kashmir in 2025. With 13,944 routine inspections conducted, the administration has surpassed expectations, taking firm action against food adulteration and ensuring safer, cleaner food reaches households across the region.
FDA Commissioner Smetha Sethi revealed that the department collected 10,620 surveillance samples, far exceeding the annual target of 7,080—over 150% achievement compared to last year. This dramatic rise reflects the administration’s escalating commitment to consumer protection and its determination to curb unsafe food practices.
Beyond routine checks, 1,423 risk-based inspections were carried out across the Union Territory, targeting potential hotspots and high-risk zones. To enforce compliance with hygiene standards and infrastructure requirements, the FDA issued 943 Improvement Notices to Food Business Operators (FBOs) under Section 32 of the FSS Act—surpassing the target of 625.
Under the FSS Act, 2006, the FDA continues to ensure that only safe, science-backed, and standardised food reaches consumers. Through civil adjudication processes under Section 30, the authority launched 718 prosecutions, with 671 cases already decided, resulting in penalties amounting to ₹84.33 lakh. Additionally, 21 criminal cases related to unsafe food were filed, with 10 convictions, including fines and imprisonment.
A series of targeted enforcement drives conducted in November revealed critical findings.
A focused crackdown on ghee adulteration led to the seizure of 80.78 kg of compromised stock. Of the 41 samples tested, 12 failed, prompting immediate prohibition orders against the responsible manufacturers. The matter has also been escalated to FSSAI and concerned states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Gujarat, to ensure action at the source.
During a Poly Pack Milk inspection drive, 95 samples were tested, with only two failing—an encouraging indicator of compliance. Results for 32 samples of packaged drinking water are expected soon.
Looking ahead, the FDA is preparing to expand its infrastructure by proposing two new state-of-the-art food testing laboratories and acquiring 10 additional ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ mobile vans, aimed at strengthening testing capabilities and extending surveillance to remote and rural communities.
