'Food safety a must for public health'
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, October 21 2024: Food Safety Officers have immense responsibility in safeguarding public health.

They must routinely conduct inspection of all types of foods available in the market to ensure quality and safety, said Health Minister Dr Sapam Ranjan today.

He said this at an event held at Hotel Imphal, North AOC to observe the "Global Iodine Deficiency Disorder Prevention Day 2024" .

The observance was jointly organised by the National Iodine Deficiency Disorder Control Programme (NIDDCP), National Health Mission (NHM), Manipur and the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sapam Ranjan stressed on the importance of raising awareness about iodine deficiency disorders among the public.

He highlighted the importance of consuming iodised salts to prevent various health disorders including thyroid disease caused by lack of iodine in diet.

Monitoring the quality of edible salt available in the market is a good step towards preventing iodine deficiency disorders, he said.

The Minister continued that the role of Food Safety Officers is vital to ensure the quality and safety of food items available in the market.

He said the Food Safety Officers should conduct surprise and routine inspection of all types of food items being sold in the market.

With a rising population, markets are evolving.

Many food items are being prepared and packaged focusing more on attracting customers.

Shops and stalls near schools are selling edible items that would easily attract children.

These edible items being sold in shops must be checked regularly to ensure safety, said the Minister.

He further stressed that the Food Safety Officers must conduct regular and surprise drives to check quality, safety of fishes, fruits and other perishable items being sold in the market.

All the different sections under the Health Department must cooperate and work in close coordination to safeguard public health, he added.

As part of the event, the Minister released a booklet related to Iodine Deficiency Disorders and its preventive measures.

Health and Family Welfare Special Secretary Hungyo Worshang, Director of Health Services Dr O Sanahanbi Devi, NHM State Mission Director Dr M Dinesh Singh, officials and staff of Health Department and nursing students attended the event.

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