Food safety at Sabarimala utmost priority: 350 inspections conducted, notices issued to 60 establishments

PATHANAMTHITTA: Special squads of the Food Safety Department have conducted 350 inspections of food establishments since the start of the Sabarimala Mandalakalam. Rectification notices have been issued to 60 establishments that were found to have deficiencies. 292 food samples were collected and subjected to laboratory testing. Eight awareness programs and two license registration fairs have been organised for food entrepreneurs. Special inspections are being conducted at places and intermediate stations frequented by pilgrims. In addition, inspections are being conducted statewide.

The activities are being coordinated by forming a special squad in connection with Mandalakalam. Food safety squads that work 24 hours a day have been formed in Sannidhanam, Pampa, Nilakkal and Erumeli. A lab has been set up in Sannidhanam to check the safety and quality of appam and aravana. Samples are being tested.

The quality of ingredients required for the production of appam and aravana is being tested at the lab operating in Pampa. Food safety inspections are being conducted using the Food Safety on Wheels set up in Nilakkal and Erumeli to ensure the quality of the collected food samples. In addition, food items are also being tested at the District Food Safety Lab started in Pathanamthitta. Detailed tests are being conducted at the Thiruvananthapuram lab as well.

Food safety squads are inspecting food establishments operating in Sannidhanam, Pampa, Nilakkal, Laha and Erumeli to ensure food safety. Awareness classes are being conducted to make food entrepreneurs aware of the necessary hygiene and safety standards. Printed awareness pamphlets in 6 languages ​​have also been distributed to provide food safety awareness to pilgrims and food entrepreneurs. Complaints related to food safety can be reported on the toll-free number 1800 425 1125.