FDA recommends ban on cooking activities in Alankar area
MAPUSA
Continuing its pre-monsoon food safety inspections, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) conducted a surprise inspection of the popular street food stalls operating near now closed Alankar cinema in Mapusa and found widespread violations of hygiene and food safety norms.
The Alankar area, known for its popular street food outlets, has remained under the FDA's radar for several years due to recurring concerns over food safety standards.
During the inspection, officials examined seven food stalls that were operational at the time. Of these, five were directed to immediately suspend their cooking activities after inspectors detected multiple instances of non-compliance with prescribed hygiene and food safety regulations.
FDA officials noted that the vendors had been inspected on several occasions in the past and had previously been ordered to halt operations for similar violations.
Although they were subsequently permitted to resume business after complying with the required standards, officials said the vendors repeatedly returned to old practices within days of restarting operations.
"The vendors continue to flout stipulated hygiene norms and show disregard for food safety laws despite repeated warnings and enforcement measures," an official said.
The Directorate has also undertaken efforts to improve food safety practices among the vendors by organising training programmes and awareness sessions.
However, officials said these initiatives have failed to bring about sustained compliance.
In view of the repeated violations, the FDA is now considering stringent legal action against the errant vendors and has decided to recommend a prohibition on cooking activities in the Alankar area until operators are able to consistently meet basic hygiene and food safety requirements.
Officials said similar inspection drives will be intensified in other parts of the State during the pre-monsoon period to ensure that food establishments adhere to safety standards and safeguard public health.
The inspection team comprised Designated Officer (North Goa) Richard Noronha and Food Safety Officers Amit Mandrekar, Lenin De Sa and Darlan Diukar, working under the guidance of FDA Director Shweta Dessai.
