How Can the Public Maximize the ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ Initiative?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Punjab's Health Minister Balbir Singh emphasizes the significance of the 'Food Safety on Wheels' initiative in ensuring food safety across the state. With mobile testing vans now deployed in all districts, residents are encouraged to utilize these services to combat food adulteration effectively.
Key Takeaways
- The 'Food Safety on Wheels' initiative aims to combat food adulteration.
- Mobile testing vans are now operational in all Punjab districts.
- Over 13,000 food samples have been screened.
- Public awareness is critical for the initiative's success.
- Food safety is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens.
Chandigarh, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister, Balbir Singh, urged citizens to fully leverage the ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ initiative, which has now reached all districts across the state governed by the Aam Aadmi Party.
These mobile food testing vans are designed to detect adulteration in various essential food items, including milk, paneer (cottage cheese), water, and other daily staples.
“These vans serve as a vital asset in our battle against food adulteration. I encourage everyone to get their food tested,” stated the Health Minister during a press briefing, emphasizing the motto, “If it’s not safe, it’s not food.”
Since the administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took office, the department has collected a total of 18,559 enforcement samples coupled with 12,178 surveillance samples.
Moreover, over 13,000 samples have been analyzed for adulteration through the ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ program, focusing on categories such as paneer, ghee, milk, spices, fruits, vegetables, sweets, and khoya.
Minister Balbir Singh instructed Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) officials to maximize the usage of these food safety vans and promote awareness among the public, especially among students, while ensuring transparency and adherence to all departmental policies.
He reiterated that food adulteration will not be tolerated at any cost, and stringent measures will be taken against offenders.
The Health Minister also pointed out that to date, 3.17 lakh licenses and registrations have been granted to food business operators, urging them to register with the FDA.
He stressed the importance of balanced diets and informed dietary choices, calling on the FDA to enhance public education efforts regarding nutrition and health initiatives.
He appealed to the people of Punjab to embrace the ‘Eat Right, Stay Healthy’ philosophy and contribute to a healthier, nutritionally secure Punjab.
Point of View
The initiative led by Punjab's Health Minister reflects a growing commitment to public health and food safety. As the government intensifies its efforts against food adulteration, it sets a precedent for other states to follow, ensuring that citizens can trust the integrity of their food supply.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Food Safety on Wheels' initiative?
The 'Food Safety on Wheels' initiative involves mobile food testing vans that screen for adulteration in essential food items, ensuring public health and safety.
How many samples have been tested under this initiative?
So far, over 13,000 samples have been tested for adulteration by the 'Food Safety on Wheels' vans.
What food items are included in the testing?
The initiative focuses on various food categories, including milk, paneer, ghee, spices, fruits, vegetables, sweets, and khoya.
Who is responsible for the initiative?
The initiative is spearheaded by the Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister, Balbir Singh, and the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).
How can the public participate?
Citizens are encouraged to utilize the food testing services provided by the mobile vans to ensure the safety of their food.
