Food Safety on Wheels Initiative Launches Awareness Campaign in Nubra Valley.
New Delhi:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has successfully deployed its “Food Safety on Wheels” (FSW) initiative in Nubra Valley, marking a historic food safety awareness campaign at an elevation of 17,582 feet. Conducted on September 27 and 28, this drive represents the first comprehensive effort to promote food safety in such a high-altitude region.
During the two-day campaign, FSW teams conducted on-the-spot testing of 35 food samples, including milk, spices, and juices, to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Additionally, six local water samples were collected for microbial analysis to assess safety.
A key focus of the initiative was educating local Food Business Operators (FBOs) on the importance of adhering to food safety regulations, securing necessary licenses, and understanding the implications of non-compliance. Informational display boards were distributed to promote better hygiene and safety practices among FBOs.
The FSW initiative utilizes mobile food-testing vehicles to conduct rapid tests for common adulterants in everyday food items, while also providing training and certification for food handlers. These efforts aim to enhance food safety awareness and improve practices among small food businesses, even in remote areas.
Organized by the Food Safety Department of Leh’s Drug and Food Control Organization, the campaign was led by Food Safety Officers Tsering Chorol, Padma Angmo, Padma Yangzes, and food analyst Humaira Yaseen. This initiative underscores FSSAI’s commitment to safeguarding public health, even in the most challenging environments.