Srinagar, Feb 14: Kashmiri’s food platter has been circulating widely on social media platforms recently, more for the wrong reasons.
Videos of rodents found in a frying oil container of a street snack vendor and a canine taking bites from mutton shop merchandise shook the netizens.
However, more than these visuals, the doctors expressed concern about what lurks in the food items we consume.
Medical professionals have called for immediate action against the deteriorating quality and safety of meat products and other foods served at local eateries and by street vendors.
The spotlight has been particularly on the rampant spread of Hepatitis A and coliform-related diseases, which they attribute to poor food handling and hygiene practices.
Head of the Department of Gastroenterology at GMC Srinagar, Dr Showkat Kadla has been vocal about the issue, saying, “The primary source of food-borne diseases, including significant liver issues among our youth, is food consumed outside the home. We have raised these concerns with the administration, but there has been little to no response.”
He highlighted the dire consequences, with young people facing chronic liver problems that sometimes necessitate hospitalisation.
The accusations include the failure to maintain a proper cold chain for meat, poultry, and related products, which is crucial in preventing bacterial growth and the absence of stringent market checks to ensure food safety.
“Non-vegetarian items need to be stored at sub-zero temperatures. But we have come across several instances where food is stored in coolers, making it conducive for microbial growth,” he said. “Such foods cause serious diseases.”
Moreover, the reuse of cooking oil over several days has come under scrutiny, with doctors warning that this practice can lead to the formation of cancer-causing agents.
In response to these health concerns, the J&K Food Control Department said that a used oil recycling programme existed.
“We have implemented a scheme where we buy back used oil from restaurants at Rs 30 per litre, encouraging them to use fresh oil,” an official from the department said.
However, this initiative is not universally adopted, with many establishments still neglecting to partake in the programme, thus continuing the hazardous practice of oil reuse.
Street food vendors, often lacking the infrastructure for basic hygiene, are particularly problematic. Anecdotal evidence has revealed that the food contributed to the spread of diseases like Hep A. Coliform bacteria, indicative of poor sanitation, have been found in alarming numbers in various food items, especially in bustling markets of the city.
The situation has been exacerbated by what doctors describe as a “lack of enforcement of food safety regulations”.
As the number of Food Business Operators grows, the need for stricter vigil and inspection from health professionals is growing louder, with demands for regular checks, mandatory hygiene training for food handlers, and better public awareness campaigns on food safety.
Public health experts argue that the issue transcends beyond immediate health risks, posing a long-term threat to community well-being.
“Ensuring food safety is not just about preventing sickness today; it’s about safeguarding the health of future generations,” Dr Kadla said.
Commissioner Food and Drugs, Hashmat Ali Yatoo told Greater Kashmir that the department focused on training Food Business Operators.
“We are also taking samples and taking action when warranted,” he said.
