Thiruvananthapuram, April 18 (NationPress) As temperatures soar across Kerala, the Food Safety Department has initiated a rigorous statewide inspection campaign focusing on juice vendors, drinking water sources, and bottled water manufacturers.

Health Minister Veena George emphasized that this action aims to protect public health during the intense summer months, when the potential for contamination and food spoilage is markedly heightened.

Since the beginning of March, officials have carried out 3,641 inspections in various districts.

As a result of these efforts, 291 businesses received rectification notices for compliance failures, and 219 establishments were issued compounding notices due to violations.

Authorities also gathered 506 surveillance samples of juices, soft drinks, and cool drinks, plus 118 samples of drinking and bottled water.

Furthermore, 36 statutory samples were collected, revealing two sub-standard samples that require further investigation.

Inspection teams led by Food Safety Assistant Commissioners are actively deployed across districts, inspecting a broad range of outlets, from roadside stalls to larger commercial establishments.

Extra vigilance is being placed on food vendors selling items like shawarma, which are especially prone to spoilage under hot conditions.

Officials have identified the use of ice in juices as a significant health hazard during the summer months.

Ice produced from contaminated water can result in severe health issues, and vendors have been strictly instructed to utilize only clean, safe water for ice production.

The department has also cautioned that food items can spoil rapidly in high temperatures and must be kept in hygienic, covered conditions.

Packed food should have clear labels indicating the preparation date and time, and consumers are advised to refrain from consuming food past its safe consumption period.

The Minister has urged the public to stay alert, highlighting the importance of drinking plenty of water, even if one doesn't feel thirsty, and to ensure it is clean and safe.

Boiled and cooled water is advised, particularly during travel.

Officials have raised alarms regarding the sale of unapproved or counterfeit bottled water, warning of stringent actions under the Food Safety Act. Consumers are encouraged to verify that bottle seals are intact and to avoid purchasing water or soft drinks exposed to direct sunlight.

Improper storage and transportation of bottled beverages, especially in heat, can lead to serious health risks, officials noted.

The inspection initiative will persist in the coming weeks as part of efforts to ensure food and water safety throughout the summer season.