Govt to Form Taluk-Level ‘Watch Teams’ to Ensure Food Safety and Crack Down on Fake Goods: Minister U.T. Khader

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Mangaluru : Addressing a press conference in Mangaluru, Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader stated that the government is contemplating the formation of specialized ‘Watch Teams’ at the taluk level to maintain consistent food safety standards, acknowledging that officials cannot conduct surprise raids continuously. These dedicated teams will recruit socially conscious citizens, including active individuals aged over 60, to create public awareness regarding food hygiene, quality standards, and health safety.

The Minister highlighted the need for strict compliance in the meat and dairy industries, emphasizing that clear display boards must be installed at shops to inform consumers about the permissible shelf life for storing chicken. He also urged the Union Government to establish standardized guidelines regarding sugar content and overall quality parameters in processed food items to safeguard public health across the country.

Taking a firm stance against food adulteration, Khader reaffirmed the state’s total ban on artificial paneer, which has been increasingly reported in places with high demand for vegetarian cuisine. Unbranded, low-cost synthetic paneer being supplied to Mangaluru eateries poses severe health hazards to consumers. While artificial food coloring has been banned completely, the usage of monosodium glutamate (Ajinomoto) will be strictly regulated, as a total ban remains practically challenging.

The government is also initiating stringent action against manufacturers mixing harmful nicotine into gutkha and pan masala products. Additionally, discussions will be held with catering vendors supplying food and essentials to airlines to ensure quality compliance. Addressing pharmaceutical safety, the Minister confirmed an ongoing SIT investigation into the counterfeit drug racket, adding that over 400 public complaints regarding hotels and medical shops have already been received.