Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Feb 14: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Goa has uncovered multiple unlicensed and unhygienic food establishments during inspection drives carried out at Old Market Road in Margao and along the Seraulim–Verna Road, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane informed.

During the inspections, officials seized and destroyed expired and unsafe food items valued at Rs 35,600. Penalties amounting to Rs 17,000 were also imposed on defaulting units for violations of food safety norms.

The minister said several food business operators were found functioning without valid licences and maintaining poor hygiene standards, posing potential risks to public health.

He added that owners and operators were counselled on the importance of maintaining cleanliness, adopting safe food handling practices, ensuring proper storage and disposal of waste, and complying with prescribed food safety regulations.

Rane reiterated that the state government will continue to conduct regular inspections and initiate strict action against violators to safeguard consumers and ensure the availability of safe and hygienic food across Goa.