Bhubaneswar, August 25: A food safety enforcement drive was conducted across several areas of Bhubaneswar, including VSS Nagar, Chakeisiani, Satya Vihar and Pahala, with authorities inspecting sweet stalls and food vending establishments.

During the inspections, around 15 kg of stale and expired food products were destroyed. The Food Safety team also collected 27 samples for testing through the Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL). A fine of ₹2,500 was imposed under Section 69 of the Food Safety and Standards Act by the Designated Officer, Food Safety (DOFS).

In a separate inspection, the food safety team visited sweet manufacturing hubs and retail establishments in Unit-4, Rabi Talkies, Sahid Nagar and Pandav Nagar in Old Town. During the drive, approximately 30 kg of adulterated paneer was identified and destroyed.

The team also detected severe hygiene violations at a sweet manufacturing unit near Rabi Talkies. The unit was ordered to remain closed until the required hygiene standards are maintained.

Further, nearly 70 kg of sweets contaminated by cockroaches, insects and flies were destroyed during the inspection.

Officials said such enforcement drives would continue to ensure food safety standards are maintained and to prevent the sale of adulterated, stale and unhygienic food products to consumers.