Haryana tightens food safety checks as festive season approaches

The Haryana health department has initiated a comprehensive food safety campaign to monitor the quality and safety of food items circulating in markets during the festive season. Health officials have been instructed to conduct regular inspections of food establishments, including restaurants, street vendors, sweet shops, and food storage facilities to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

The department's directive comes as part of a preventive strategy to minimize cases of food contamination and related illnesses during celebrations when food consumption typically increases. Special focus will be placed on perishable items, dairy products, and ready-to-eat foods that pose higher risks if not handled properly.

Authorities have also been tasked with testing food samples to verify adherence to hygiene protocols and the absence of harmful additives or contaminants. The surveillance programme will be coordinated across all district-level health departments in the state to ensure uniform implementation.

Public awareness campaigns are being planned to educate consumers about safe food handling practices and the importance of purchasing from licensed and verified vendors. The health department has also appealed to food businesses to maintain proper sanitation standards and obtain necessary certifications to operate during the festive period.