Frozen Meat Sellers in J&K Warned of Jail, Heavy Fines for Safety Violations
Srinagar, Aug 21 — The Jammu & Kashmir Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a stern warning to businesses dealing in frozen meat, chicken, and related products, directing strict adherence to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms.
The notice, covering manufacturers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, cold storage operators, transporters, and e-commerce platforms, prohibits the sale of any meat product without proper labeling. It also mandates frozen products to be stored and transported at -18°C or below, while chilled products may only be kept at 4°C for a maximum of four days.
Officials cautioned that violations will invite strict action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Penalties include fines up to ₹10 lakh, seizure of unsafe stock, and imprisonment up to six years in cases involving unsafe food.
The FDA reminded that in recent inspections, over 12,000 kg of sub-standard meat was destroyed, underscoring its zero-tolerance policy toward food safety violations.
