The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is taking strict measures to improve food and water safety in Telangana. G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of FSSAI, has instructed officials to carry out 100% inspections of Packaged Drinking Water (PDW) units and ensure thorough checks at water treatment plants.
During a review meeting held in Hyderabad on July 18, Rao stressed that food safety cannot be compromised. He directed officials to collect more samples, conduct risk-based inspections, and take immediate action against adulteration.
Key Highlights of the Meeting
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Rao emphasized the need to resolve food safety cases within 90 days, as per the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act 2006.
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He appreciated the state government’s initiatives aimed at strengthening enforcement and public outreach on food safety.
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RAFT (Rapid Analytical Food Testing) kits will be distributed to all Food Safety Officers (FSOs) across Telangana. Additionally, mobile food testing labs will be deployed more frequently for real-time field surveillance.
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Rao urged the fast-tracking of the Food Safety Laboratory in Hyderabad, assuring full FSSAI support to improve the state’s testing capacity.
Public Awareness and Training
To promote public health, the CEO called for intensified awareness campaigns, including celebrity-led initiatives to encourage healthier eating habits and reduce salt, sugar, and oil intake. He also highlighted the importance of training food handlers, especially those working in anganwadis and hostels, to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Senior officials, including Additional District Magistrates (Adjudicating Officers) and 50 FSOs from 33 districts, participated in the meeting both online and offline.
Date: 28 Jul to 1 Aug 2025 (5 Days)
Time: 7 PM to 10 PM
Fee: Rs. 3000
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