Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Intensifies Food Safety Drive
The health department of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has taken decisive action against food safety violations in the city. In a comprehensive crackdown during January, authorities issued formal notices to a staggering 523 food establishments found to be non-compliant with health standards.
Massive Destruction of Unfit Food Items
During this enforcement period, AMC officials destroyed substantial quantities of contaminated food products. The operation resulted in the disposal of 1,126 kilograms of unhealthy solid food items and an additional 1,318 litres of inedible liquid food that posed potential health risks to consumers.
Financial Penalties and Unit Sealing
The civic body imposed administrative charges totaling Rs 5.73 lakh on defaulting units that failed to meet food safety requirements. In more severe cases, the corporation took the extreme measure of sealing four establishments:
- Das Khaman in Nikol
- Savai Bhoj Maharaj in Usmanpura
- Shailesh's Panipuri unit
- Afzal Ahmedbhai Zaveri's food unit in Juhapura
Extensive Sample Collection and Analysis
AMC's surveillance efforts included collecting 1,319 food samples throughout January for laboratory testing. This comprehensive sampling included water used in panipuri preparation, reflecting the department's thorough approach to food safety monitoring.
Alarming Test Results
Laboratory analysis revealed concerning findings, with 291 samples testing positive for harmful food-grade colors and other unhealthy elements. These adulterated products represented a significant portion of the tested items, highlighting the scope of food safety challenges in the city.
Targeted Action Against Violators
All panipuri units found to be using contaminated water or other unsafe practices were promptly closed by the respective zone's estate and health departments. This coordinated enforcement demonstrates AMC's commitment to protecting public health through rigorous food safety protocols.
