Punjab FDA flags 1,420 failed food samples in HC compliance report, bans energy drinks near schools
Punjab FDA also outlined enforcement and awareness measures taken across the state, including a ban on the sale of energy drinks to children near schools.
The action comes in response to a March 4 order passed in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Kanwar Pahul Singh, following the death of a young girl, Manvi, in Patiala in March 2024 after she consumed a birthday cake ordered online. Her death had triggered widespread outrage.
FDA's latest compliance report was filed in a related contempt petition, which is listed for hearing on August 19.
A key development in the compliance report is a prohibition order issued on April 21, 2025, banning the sale of energy drinks to children, and their sale within 100 metres of schools in rural areas and 50 metres in urban areas. The ban is in effect for one year.
The department also reported that inspections of high-risk food businesses are ongoing as per directives from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). 'There is no negligence on the part of state officials,' the FDA told the High Court, adding that the department is 'working day and night to improve the food safety ecosystem across the state.'
According to the report signed by the FDA commissioner, 11,657 food samples were collected in 2024–25, of which 1,420 were found to be non-conforming. 'Subsequent appropriate action is being taken as per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006,' the department stated.
In the first quarter of 2025–26, the department lifted hundreds of samples of milk, oils, cereals, spices, sweets, and other commodities for enforcement and surveillance testing. Notably, 1,100 surveillance samples of fruits and vegetables were collected to check for contamination, including artificial ripening and heavy metal residues.
Under the Eat Right India movement, the department reported more than 150 certifications awarded to clean street food hubs, mandis, schools, campuses, and places of worship. FDA has also conducted more than 500 awareness camps, 1,692 education programmes, and numerous workshops for food business operators over the past three years.
The compliance report has been forwarded to the Registrar of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, all designated officers, and the petitioner.
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