Sale of Cremica Digestive biscuits banned in Anantnag over excess sulphite content

Anantnag, Jan 06: The Food Safety Department on Tuesday banned the sale of Cremica Digestive biscuits in Anantnag district after laboratory analysis found the product unsafe for consumption due to excess sulphite content.

The prohibition follows the collection of a biscuit sample by a Food Safety Officer from Larnoo.

The sample, sold under the brand name Cremica Digestive (Lot No. BD10K25), was manufactured and marketed by Mrs. Bector’s Food Specialities Ltd., officials said.

According to the National Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad, the sample failed safety standards. “The product was declared unsafe on account of sulphite content exceeding the maximum prescribed limit,” the laboratory stated in its report (No. JK-794/JAN/26/910) dated Jan. 1, 2026.

Designated Officer Food Safety, Anantnag, Sheikh Zameer Ahmad, said the action was taken in the interest of public health. “Consumption of food items containing sulphite above permissible limits can pose serious health risks, particularly to sensitive individuals,” he said.

Invoking powers under Section 36(3)(b) of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act), 2006, Ahmad ordered an immediate ban on the sale of the product within Anantnag district. “Manufacture and sale of unsafe food is prohibited under the Act, and strict action is warranted to safeguard consumers,” he added.

Officials said the prohibition will remain in force until further orders. “Food business operators have been directed to immediately stop the sale of the product and ensure compliance with food safety regulations,” Ahmad said.

The Food Safety Department has warned that any violation of the order will invite action under relevant provisions of the FSS Act, officials said.

Earlier also on December, 12 last year Authorities in Anantnag had banned the sale of a batch of Priyagold Butter Delite biscuits after a government laboratory confirmed sulphite levels beyond the permissible limit.