Pune: Of the 297 food samples drawn during Diwali and tested, 39 have fared poorly on various quality parameters at the state-run lab, the latest report of the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has revealed.
FDA officials had drawn samples of 387 food items ahead of Diwali this year. "Of these, 297 samples have been analysed at the designated laboratory so far. After the testing, it was found that 39 samples did not conform to the quality standards set by the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI)," SS Desai, joint commissioner (food), FDA, Pune, told TOI.
Among the 39 samples found substandard (lacking in quality but safe for human consumption), the maximum were of milk and edible oil. "Milk samples found substandard lacked the amount of fat and solids-not-fat (SNF) as per the norms laid down by the law. While purity of edible oil was compromised by mixing oils of lesser quality," Desai said, adding that excessive use of edible colour and milk powder affected the quality of milk products, sweets and farsaan.
"We have started taking action against the commercial establishments from where these 'substandard' samples were drawn," Desai said, adding, "As per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the FDA officials can only fine them for such offences. A case is filed against a supplier only when the sample is found unsafe for human consumption."
Meanwhile, activists have questioned the state's approach towards ensuring food safety. "The state health laboratory in Pune, which is a referral lab for testing food samples in the state, has been overburdened. Many key positions of the staff are lying vacant for years. The government should fill up these posts," activist Sanjay Dabhade said.
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