J&K FDA Enforces New Standards on Frozen Meat Sales

The Jammu and Kashmir Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated strict adherence to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines concerning the sale of frozen meat and chicken products. This directive aims to enhance public health safety and ensure compliance with food safety standards across the region.

Comprehensive Guidelines for Food Business Operators

According to the FDA’s public notice, the regulations are applicable to various Food Business Operators (FBOs), including manufacturers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, cold storage operators, transporters, and e-commerce platforms. The notice explicitly prohibits the sale of packaged food products that do not feature proper and complete label declarations.

The FDA has defined the categories of meat based on their storage conditions, specifying that frozen meat and meat products must be stored and transported at a temperature of -18°C or below throughout all stages of the supply chain, from production to the point of sale. For short-term storage, a temperature of 4°C is permissible for a maximum of two to four days prior to consumption.

To ensure compliance, all establishments must be equipped with calibrated temperature monitoring devices and maintain accurate records for inspections. The notice warns that non-compliance will lead to strict enforcement actions under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, which may include the seizure of non-compliant stock and substantial monetary penalties.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The penalties outlined in the notice are significant. Businesses may face fines of up to ₹5 lakh for selling sub-standard products, ₹3 lakh for misbranding or missing label information, and ₹10 lakh for operating without an FSSAI license. Furthermore, offenses involving unsafe food can result in imprisonment for up to six years, alongside fines of up to ₹5 lakh.

FBOs are required to promptly upgrade their operations to meet these new standards, ensuring full compliance with the regulations. This includes maintaining updated records and removing any non-compliant products from their retail outlets and online platforms. The notice also emphasizes that failure to comply will result in immediate legal action without any prior notice.

In recent weeks, food safety officials have intensified inspections of food items, particularly focusing on meat and chicken products. This scrutiny follows a scandal in which approximately 12,000 kg of sub-standard meat was destroyed, highlighting the urgent need for stringent food safety measures in the region.

As the FDA continues its efforts to regulate food safety, the compliance requirements are expected to ensure higher standards and protect consumers in Jammu and Kashmir.