ANANTNAG, May 14: Based on credible inputs regarding the sale of “Basel Seed Drink” of various flavours being marketed as an imported product under the “American” brand, the Food Safety Department, Anantnag conducted raids at multiple locations across the district and seized 150 cases of the product worth approximately Rs 3,56,400.
The seizures were made from various Food Business Operators (FBOs), including M/S Aayet Trading Company, General Bus Stand Anantnag; M/S Hamas, Bypass Road Anantnag; and M/S Valley Traders & Distributors, Pushoo Market Anantnag.
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the concerned FBOs had procured the products from M/S Krusha Premium Industries Pvt. Ltd., Sonipat Haryana; M/S G.S. Food Labs, Pooth Khurd, New Delhi; and M/S Aamantn, Chowadi Fowara Chowk, Jammu. During scrutiny of the labels, serious discrepancies were observed. The products were labelled as “American” Brand Basel Seed Drink, Product of Thailand, purportedly manufactured by Golden and SUN EXPORT, Bangkok, Thailand, without mandatory importer details on the label. Furthermore, the products were found carrying a fake FSSAI license number.
Investigation conducted so far also suggests that the product, despite being marketed as an imported commodity, is suspected to have been manufactured locally. The seized stock has been taken into custody for further legal and analytical proceedings under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Samples of the product have also been lifted for detailed laboratory analysis to ascertain its safety and quality standards.
The department has initiated a comprehensive investigation to identify all individuals and entities involved in the alleged and illegal manufacture/distribution of the product.
The Department of Food Safety reiterates its commitment towards safeguarding public health and advises consumers to remain cautious while purchasing food products carrying suspicious or misleading labels.