Kharibari, 24th September: The Food Safety Department conducted an inspection drive in Panitanki along the India-Nepal border in Kharibari on Thursday. Led by the Kharibari BDO, Food Safety Department officials and administrative personnel inspected various food shops, sweet shops and hotels in the border area.
Several irregularities were found during the inspection, including concerns regarding the quality of food items. Officials also found that several shops did not have the required food licences, while some were operating without trade licences.
Following verification of the documents, notices were issued to a total of eight shops in the border area for allegedly operating without the necessary permissions.
During the inspection, expired food items were also found at some shops. Questions were also raised over the use of food colours in food items. Officials warned shopkeepers to follow the prescribed rules regarding the storage and use of food products.
According to the administration, this was the second Food Safety Department inspection drive in Panitanki. Shops that received notices during the previous drive will also be monitored and inspected again.
Kharibari BDO said establishments involved in food businesses in the border area are being continuously made aware of the rules and regulations. He said valid food licences and the required trade licences are mandatory for shops and that regular inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.
He added that similar inspection drives will continue in Panitanki and various other areas of Kharibari block in the coming days.
