Port Blair, Aug 05: As per the MoU 2021-22 signed between the Apex Food Regulator in the country, FSSAI, New Delhi and Commissioner Food Safety, A&N Islands to strengthen Food Safety Eco System in the Union Territory islands which includes various initiatives like collection of regulatory samples, Eat Right Campus, Eat Right School, RUCO(Reused cooking Oil), BHOG(Blissful Hygienic Offering to God ), Save Food Share Food, Clean Street Food Hub, Hygiene Rating and third party audit of Food Premises, Clean and Fresh Food Vegetable Market, Food Fortification etc.
As per the initiative under RUCO, the officials of Food Safety Department inspected Hotels, Dhabas, fast food eateries and other food business premises in and around Port Blair Municipal area to check the quality of cooking oil. The oil used for cooking and frying were monitored with fry oil monitor. The Total Polar Compounds (TPM) formed on repeated frying, were found within limit prescribed by FSSAI. The Food Business Operators were sensitized regarding the ill effects of repeated use of cooking oils and the legal implications under FSSAI Act, Rules & Regulations against the violators.
Similarly, fish markets of the city were also inspected. The officials with the help of formalin and ammonia testing kits tested fish samples randomly and no anomalies were detected by the team.
Keeping in view that the tourism sectors are being opened in the Islands, the present initiative of the Food Safety Department is to maintain the quality, hygiene and safety of food which is one of the important factors to attract tourists.
The Commissioner Food Safety, A&N Islands cautioned all concerned to abide by the FSSAI Act, Rules and Regulations made there under. The general public are requested to lodge complaints, if any, to toll free No. 1070, 03192-236168.
