Food Safety on Wheels Reaches Nubra Valley, Ladakh
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has been making significant strides with its ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ (FSW) initiative. This program aims to conduct food testing and raise awareness about food safety across India.
Campaign in Nubra Valley
On September 27 and 28, an awareness campaign was launched in Nubra Valley, Ladakh, at an impressive elevation of 17,582 feet via Khardung La. This marks the first comprehensive food safety drive at such a high altitude.
Objectives and Activities
The primary goal was to ensure food safety standards by conducting on-the-spot testing of various food products, including milk, spices, and juices. Over the two-day initiative, 35 food samples were tested, including 12 samples of milk, 8 samples of spices, and 9 samples of juices. Additionally, six local water samples were collected for detailed microbial analysis.
The campaign also focused on educating local Food Business Operators (FBOs) about the importance of complying with food safety practices, obtaining necessary registrations and licenses, and understanding the consequences of violations. Hygiene standards were emphasized, and informational display boards were distributed to promote better food safety practices.
About Food Safety on Wheels
FSSAI’s ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ initiative includes food-testing vehicles that conduct simple tests for common adulterants in milk, water, edible oil, and other everyday food items. These vehicles also serve as tools for raising awareness about food safety among citizens. They are designed to conduct training and certification programs for food handlers and supervisors, particularly focusing on small food businesses. The mobile units empower field functionaries in various states to expand their outreach and conduct surveillance activities, even in remote areas.
Organizers
The campaign in Nubra Valley was organized by the Food Safety Department of Leh’s Drug and Food Control Organisation, led by Food Safety Officers Tsering Chorol, Padma Angmo, Padma Yangzes, and food analyst Humaira Yaseen. This initiative underscores FSSAI’s commitment to safeguarding public health even in the most remote and challenging regions.
Doubts Revealed
Food Safety on Wheels -: This is a special program by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) where a vehicle travels to different places to check if food is safe to eat and to teach people about food safety.
Nubra Valley -: Nubra Valley is a beautiful place in Ladakh, which is a region in the northern part of India. It is known for its high mountains and cold desert.
Ladakh -: Ladakh is a region in the northern part of India, famous for its stunning landscapes, high mountains, and Buddhist culture.
FSSAI -: FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a government organization that makes sure the food we eat is safe and healthy.
elevation of 17,582 feet -: This means that Nubra Valley is very high up in the mountains, about 17,582 feet above sea level. That’s higher than most places in India.
food safety awareness campaign -: This is an event where people are taught how to keep food clean and safe to eat. It helps prevent people from getting sick from bad food.
Food Business Operators -: These are people or companies that make, sell, or serve food. They need to follow rules to make sure the food is safe.
compliance -: This means following the rules and regulations set by authorities like FSSAI to ensure food safety.