Team Goemkarponn
VERNA: The Goa Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) carried out a food safety enforcement drive at Verna Industrial Estate, inspecting nine establishments, including restaurants, retailers, hawkers and private company canteens, as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure safe and hygienic food for consumers.
During the inspection, five establishments were found operating without valid FSSAI licences. The FDA issued notices to the operators and imposed penalties for violating food safety regulations.
The inspection also revealed serious hygiene and food safety deficiencies at four establishments. Officials identified improper food storage, pest infestation, poor sanitation, unsafe food handling practices, use of synthetic food colours, wrapping food in newspapers and inadequate waste disposal systems. The operators have been directed to immediately rectify the shortcomings.
In addition, three establishments were penalised for violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).
The FDA has directed all concerned establishments to submit compliance reports within eight days after addressing the deficiencies. Officials said follow-up inspections will be carried out to verify compliance and warned that strict action will continue against food business operators found violating food safety norms.
The enforcement drive forms part of the FDA’s continued efforts to strengthen food safety standards and safeguard public health across Goa.
