The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Nagpur Division, has seized 219.4 kg of spices worth Rs 77.12 lakh during its Diwali food safety drive across Nagpur, with inspections covering Kalamna, Itwari, Wadi and Nagpur Rural. The drive has flagged unhygienic processing, improper storage and labelling violations. “The inspections have uncovered violations under Schedule IV hygiene requirements, including food products stored directly on the ground, poor packaging, incorrect labelling and a general lack of cleanliness,” shared R R Shah, Assistant Commissioner, FDA, Nagpur. The spices were seized on suspicion that they were substandard or adulterated and had been manufactured under unhygienic conditions, he added. Shah, however, clarified that laboratory reports will determine whether the seized products were adulterated or substandard.

 

“Whether the spices contain unidentified substances or fail to meet prescribed quality standards will be established only through laboratory testing,” said Shah. Officials have indicated that further action will follow within 14 days, hence leaving the test results to determine the next course of proceedings. Krishna Jaipurkar, Joint Commissioner, FDA, Nagpur, shared that the Diwali festival drive is also keeping edible oils, sweets, dry fruits, chocolates and namkeens under the scanner. Traditional Maharashtrian snacks, including chakli and other breakfast items, are also being checked. Officials have informed that the drive will continue throughout the festival, with food safety teams checking products and establishments across Nagpur and its rural areas.