Mirwaiz calls for measures to ensure food safety, public health

Srinagar, Aug 8: Addressing one of the most distressing concern in Jammu and Kashmir presently, Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Umar Farooq today raised alarm over reports of suspicious food items circulating in Kashmir's market during his Friday sermon at Jamia Masjid Srinagar.

He expressed serious concern and highlighted the recent incidents regarding suspicious packaged meat and meat products, including processed snacks and dairy items. He lambasted the dearth of proper labeling and certification and raised doubts about their safety and compliance with Islamic food standards.

Mirwaiz described the distribution of such food items as a "serious breach of trust". He said it was a violation of ethical and religious principles and eroded the faith people had in their market. "Selling food that is questionable in not just its origin but also quality is a very serious matter, not just a health risk but a moral failing," he stated. He urged people to get vigilant and report any suspicious products to the authorities. Mirwaiz said there was a need for strict monitoring by the Food Safety Department. "Mandatory labeling, including clear details on ingredients, sourcing, and halal certification for all packaged goods is a basic," he said.

Criticising the "lax enforcement" at the entry points to Jammu Kashmir he questioned how highly suspicious food items continue to infiltrate Kashmir’s markets without any ramifications. "The authorities must act swiftly to restore public confidence. This is a matter of both public health and our shared values," Mirwaiz said. He commended common people who have been proactive in informing officials to violations.

The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), led by Mirwaiz also issued a statement seeking strict inspections of supply chains. It also urged vendors to source products only from certified suppliers.

Mirwaiz demanded that restaurants and hotels here must display a certificate at their premises that states what their source of meat is. He also said all the sourcing of all kinds of meat from outside be banned if it is not accompanied by pa roper supply chain, halal and quality certificate.