What is the Rotten Meat Scandal Shaking Kashmir Valley?

Srinagar, Aug 7 (NationPress) In a startling discovery, authorities in the Kashmir Valley uncovered over 2,500 kg of spoiled meat that was meant for consumer distribution. With this shocking find, residents are left to ponder just how much of this unsafe and contaminated meat may have already been consumed prior to the intervention.

An official announcement disclosed that within the last two days, a series of surprise inspections and raids were executed across various sites.

“In particular, enforcement teams in the Safakadal and Parimpora regions of District Srinagar confiscated 2,500 kababs that were processed using frozen meat with unauthorized food coloring. These tainted kababs were destroyed immediately to mitigate any risk to public health,” it stated.

The statement also highlighted that 150 kilograms of meatballs (Gushtaba) were seized during these operations. Food Safety Officers collected legal samples of the confiscated items for in-depth analysis and subsequent legal proceedings.

“In another case in the Nagbal area of District Ganderbal, around 250 kilograms of locally sourced meat were destroyed due to clear signs of spoilage from improper handling and storage,” it noted.

Officials mentioned that this crackdown has sparked vigorous reactions against defaulting Food Business Operators (FBOs), with some resorting to the illegal disposal of hazardous food products at deserted locations.

“Two incidents were recently reported in Kakapora (District Pulwama) and Khandey Colony, Nawgam (District Srinagar). Legal action was initiated against two FBOs in District Ganderbal for unsanitary food storage practices, leading to the sealing of their facilities in accordance with the law,” he stated.

The Department reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance towards breaches of food safety regulations and warned that stringent legal actions would be taken against any FBOs found guilty of violations.

All stakeholders, particularly those involved with high-risk food items, are once again urged to comply strictly with the Food Safety and Standards Act, including mandatory labeling and hygiene protocols.

The Food Safety Department is committed to protecting public health and ensuring that consumers, who spend a significant portion of their income on food, have access to safe and nutritious options.

“Consumers are encouraged to remain observant and report any food safety issues or violations to the department,” he added.

Meanwhile, a wave of fear and anger has swept through the community, as many wonder if they may have unknowingly consumed this rotten and hazardous meat before the scandal was revealed.