FDA intensifies checks on varai flour, sweets

PUNE: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) officials have intensified random checks and inspection of sweet shops and grocery shops, which sell varai flour (samo rice) during Navaratra. In 2011, hundreds of people in the city and other parts of the state were hospitalized after eating preparations made from adulterated varai flour. "We have intensified our drive and have collected samples of varai sold either loose or in packaged form in the city. We are testing samples of sweets, khoya and khoya-based products sold at sweet shops in the city," said Dilip Sangat, assistant commissioner (food), FDA, Pune.The FDA has also issued guidelines to mandals to prevent food adulteration and food-poisoning incidents.

Besides, food safety officials are conducting surprise visits in mandals and temples to collect samples of food items being served. "During the festive days, our officials conduct meetings with authorities of religious organizations and sensitize them about safety precautions and hygienic preparation of food that will be served to the devotees,"