NTR joint collector cracks down on food safety violations, imposes Rs 5.6 lakh fine

Vijayawada: In a major crackdown on food safety violations, the NTR district administration has imposed a total penalty of ₹5.65 lakh on multiple food business establishments found operating without mandatory food safety licences, stocking expired food products and maintaining unhygienic premises.Conducting a special hearing, joint collector S Ilakkiya took strict action against 16 food businesses after violations were established under food safety regulations. The offences included operating without an FSSAI licence, selling or storing expired food items and running establishments in unsafe and unhygienic conditions.The joint collector issued a stern warning that food manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and restaurants must obtain valid FSSAI licences before commencing business.

She also cautioned that any establishment found stocking expired food products during inspections would face stringent action, including the seizure of premises wherever necessary.Officials said the district administration will continue surprise inspections to ensure compliance with food safety norms and protect public health. The hearing was attended by officials from the Food Safety Department, who reiterated their commitment to enforcing food safety standards across the NTR district.