The squad formed under the directive of food safety commissioner G R Gokul conducted raids in 19 manufacturing units. Of these, 4 institutions were given improvement notices, three were slapped a fine worth Rs 18,000. The department collector statutory samples of 14 curry powders and 37 surveillance samples. In the raids held in June 20,21, 22 and Monday, the department has conducted inspections in over 100 manufacturing units. Of these, 19 units were given improvement notices and a fine worth Rs 1.26 lakh has been slapped.
During the first phase of raids, Nirapara Roller Flour Mill, Attingal, which was engaged in powdering and packaging of wheat, was closed down by the food safety department after finding that it was functioning in unhygienic circumstance. The department also seized and sent for lab test powdered products such as cumin, coriander and turmeric worth Rs 4.71 lakh manufactured by Palakkad-based Anakkara Food Processing and Export Private Limited.
The first phase raids were conducted in Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Idukki, Ernakulam, Palakkad, Malappuram and Kannur districts. The second phase which began on Monday, will cover the next seven districts.
