ANANTNAG: Additional Deputy Commissioner of Anantnag, F. A. Banday on Wednesday convened a meeting with restaurant owners in his office to discuss critical food safety issues.
The meeting held threadbare discussion on the use of monosodium glutamate (MSG), synthetic food colors, and the repurposing of used cooking oil (RUCo). Due to health risks associated with the frequent and uncontrolled use of MSG and synthetic colors, restaurant owners were instructed to halt their usage until proper regulatory mechanisms under the FSS Act, 2006, are established.
The FBOs were urged to adhere to legal protocols for cooking oil use and to purchase dressed meat, chicken, and fish only if they are transported through a proper cold chain. Additionally, they were directed to prominently display the source of their meat to inform consumers.
A significant decision made during the meeting was the installation of CCTV cameras in food preparation areas to monitor processing practices weekly.
In his concluding remarks, the ADC instructed Food Safety Officers to conduct follow-up inspections and submit reports to his office every two weeks.
The meeting was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Food Safety and Food Safety Officers from the district.

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