Dr Ranjan stresses food safety measures
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, June 19 2024:
Food Safety Administration, Health department, in collaboration with College of Food Technology, CAU, Imphal observed World Food Safety Day 2024 under the theme "Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected" at the Auditorium of Central Agricultural University (CAU), Iroisemba, Imphal West on Wednesday.
Speaking at the observance, health and IPR minister Dr Sapam Ranjan emphasised the importance of such events in raising public health awareness.
He highlighted issues related to compromised hygiene practices aimed at reducing food costs.
Dr Ranjan asserted that food safety is crucial in everyday life, citing that approximately 200 diseases can arise from consuming unsafe and contaminated foods.
He assured that the health department is committed to ensuring availability of nutritious and safe food products to the public.
He cautioned against unsafe practices such as mass cooking and consuming food during mass gatherings, which can lead to disease outbreaks.
Dr Ranjan stressed the need for public awareness on food safety through effective slogans and their adherence.
Further addressing the audience, the minister mentioned that flood-damaged grocery items were inspected and efforts were made by the food safety authority to prevent the sale of unsafe and contaminated food items to the public.
He stressed the importance of spreading awareness and educating people, stating, It is our right as citizens to have access to safe and nutritious food".
He also highlighted the need for continuous monitoring of the food supply chain, from farm to consumers, to ensure that products are free from harmful chemicals.
The observance was attended by College of Food Technology dean Prof Ng Iboyaima and health services director Dr O Sanahanbi as chief guest and president respectively.
Officials from the health department and food safety authority, faculty, staff, and students of CAU were also present.