Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 7: Authorities in Kashmir have unearthed a major food safety scandal, seizing over 2,500 kg of unsafe and rotten meat meant for public consumption during a series of surprise raids across multiple districts. The incident has triggered widespread fear and anger among residents over the possible health risks posed by previously undetected consignments.

According to an official statement, enforcement teams from the Food Safety Department raided several locations in the last 48 hours, uncovering disturbing violations:

• In Srinagar’s Safakadal and Parimpora, 2,500 kababs made from frozen meat laced with illegal food colour were confiscated and destroyed on-site.

• Additionally, 150 kg of meatballs (Gushtaba) were seized, with samples sent for lab testing.

• In Nagbal (Ganderbal), 250 kg of spoiled meat was destroyed after officials found it had deteriorated due to poor storage and handling.

Officials noted that some food business operators (FBOs) had attempted to evade detection by dumping unsafe food at remote locations, such as Kakapora (Pulwama) and Khandey Colony, Nawgam (Srinagar). Raids in Ganderbal also led to the sealing of two premises over unhygienic conditions.

“The department has zero tolerance for such violations,” an official stated, adding that strict legal action will be taken against any FBOs found flouting the Food Safety and Standards Act.

All vendors dealing in perishable or high-risk items have been warned to follow hygiene and labelling rules, or face consequences. Authorities have urged the public to remain alert and report any suspected food safety issues.

Meanwhile, many in the Valley are expressing outrage and concern over the potential health impact, with some questioning how much contaminated meat may have already entered the market before the raids took place.