Srinagar, Oct 27 :
The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has suspended the licence of M/s ARWAH Packaged Drinking Water, located at Kakan Maran in Budgam district, over alleged food safety violations detected during an inspection.
According to the FDA, an inspection by the Food Safety Officer revealed deficiencies in water quality testing and monitoring, food safety management, and statutory documentation. The unit reportedly failed to produce the required records for verification, while its bottle-capping and sealing mechanism was found defective, resulting in leakage.
The department said the deficiencies raised concerns over quality-control measures, hygienic manufacturing practices and the safety of the packaged drinking water.
A show-cause notice was issued to the Food Business Operator seeking an explanation regarding the violations. However, no response was received within the stipulated period, the department said.
Consequently, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Budgam, exercising powers under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, ordered the suspension of the unit’s licence (No. 11026070000022) until further orders. The unit has also been directed to cease all activities at the premises until further orders.
The FDA noted that packaged drinking water falls under a high-risk food category and requires stringent quality-control measures, regular testing, proper documentation and compliance with prescribed food safety standards.
Consumers have been urged to report suspected unsafe or adulterated food products to the department via email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in. (GNS)