Tezzbuzz Desk- FSSAI has taken major action in cases of violation of food safety rules. A batch of pre-packed cumin powder from Everest Food Products has been ordered to be recalled from the market after testing found it unsafe to eat. At the same time, after serious hygiene and cleanliness related deficiencies were found, the license of Creative Bakers and Confectioners Private Limited has been suspended with immediate effect.
As per the FSSAI action, the concerned entire batch of pre-packed cumin powder of Everest Food Products Pvt Ltd has been directed to be withdrawn from the market. The batch number of this product is E080668761. The sample did not meet the food safety standards in lab testing and was declared unsafe. The company has been directed to maintain complete records of the products being withdrawn from the market and submit information and status reports related to the same within the stipulated time. Besides, necessary corrective steps have been taken to ensure that such problem does not recur in future.
The sample of this cumin powder was taken from the premises of Riverside Resorts and Holiday Homes Private Limited, Goa. During testing by food analysts, residues of pesticides named azoxystrobin and thiamethoxam in cumin powder were found to be more than the prescribed limit. After this the sample was declared unsafe under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The company was given the opportunity to appeal against the food analyst's report. After this the sample was sent to the referral food laboratory. In re-testing also, the quantity of azoxystrobin and thiamethoxam in cumin powder was found to be more than the prescribed limit. The referral laboratory also declared the sample unsafe. After this, action was taken to withdraw the concerned batch from the market.
At the same time, during FSSAI's investigation, many serious deficiencies related to cleanliness and hygiene came to light in the bakery of Creative Bakers and Confectioners Private Limited. Dirt, grease, dust, spider webs and flies were found in food production and handling areas. Perishable raw materials were kept in the open. Rusted and not properly cleaned containers were being used to store raw and semi-finished products. During the investigation, problem of insects was also found in the premises and pest control arrangements were not found adequate. The arrangements to stop flies were not proper. There were also no adequate arrangements to protect against rats. There were also no insect nets installed on windows and other places.
Garbage, old stock, rejected goods and scrap were also found in the food handling area. Some machines were rusted. The paint on the walls was peeling off and the problem of dampness also surfaced in the premises. Floor tiles were found broken at some places. The investigation also found deficiencies in the maintenance of important records and systems related to food safety. These included testing of water and finished products, time and temperature monitoring, inspection of machines, required maintenance, mock recalls, customer complaints, employee training and audit records. In view of these serious deficiencies, FSSAI suspended the license of Creative Bakers and Confectioners Private Limited with immediate effect. The company has been directed to stop all food business activities during the period of suspension.