Agartala: To ensure quality food in the hotels and restaurants during Durga puja days, District Magistrate (West Tripura) Dr Vishal Kumar issued a stern warning to all food hubs on Saturday to maintain full hygiene in the kitchen and follow the guidelines of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
“Strict action will be taken in accordance with the law if adulterated food is found to be served. Our team will be vigilant across the city round the clock and randomly check the quality of food and the entire process of food preparation,” Dr Kumar said, adding that there has been an allegation against some restaurants for serving food that flouts the quality norms.
Tripura has a practice of having dinner outside during Durga puja, and as a result, temporary food hubs and restaurants are being opened even in small habitations during festival season, but most of the time, administration doesn’t go for inspection, which Dr Kumar intended to pluck.
He held a meeting with the food vendors of all 43 markets in Agartala about FASSI guidelines, and the purpose of today’s meeting was to educate the cocked food traders of West Tripura district about the rules and guidelines set forth by FSSAI.
”We urged traders to ensure that there is no adulteration in the food. Good food should be provided at a reasonable profit,” he added.
“Edible oil, once used, cannot be reused. The festival season is a critical time. Therefore, thorough hand washing before cooking is imperative. Gloves should be used if necessary, and single-use plastic is prohibited. Buyers should bring their own bags if needed,” the District Magistrate cautioned the food vendors, adding that the administration would in no way compromise the food safety issue.
