MAPUSA
Acting on specific intelligence about unauthorised food supplies to tourist boats at Betim, officials of the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Tuesday cracked down on illegal catering operations during an early morning raid in Panaji and Bardez, unearthing multiple violations of food safety norms.
According to FDA sources, the team zeroed in on suppliers allegedly catering to boat operators and found at least five vendors preparing food without mandatory licences issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The inspections also revealed poor hygiene conditions, raising concerns over public health. All identified vendors were directed to immediately cease operations.
“Food being supplied without proper licensing and hygiene checks poses a serious risk, especially in high-footfall tourist zones,” an FDA official said, adding that surveillance has been intensified in coastal belts and riverine hubs.
The drive was later extended to Baga, where two biryani suppliers were found to be repeat offenders and were fined Rs 25,000 under Section 69 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
In another case, a retail outlet was penalised Rs 10,000 for operating without an FSSAI licence.
Officials said the action is part of a broader effort to tighten enforcement amid rising complaints of unregulated food businesses.
“We have been receiving inputs about home-based operators and small vendors bypassing licensing norms. Strict action will continue,” the official added.
The FDA has announced a special enforcement drive starting next week targeting snack suppliers, home-based caterers and bakers operating without FSSAI registration or violating hygiene standards, with authorities warning of stricter penalties for repeat violations.
