Bhubaneswar: Food safety enforcement has been intensified across the twin cities of Kataka and Bhubaneswar ahead of Raksha Bandhan and the series of festive celebrations scheduled in August and September.

Acting on the directions of Food Safety Commissioner Poma Tudu, enforcement teams have conducted raids at several locations over the past two days, seizing around 71 quintals of adulterated paneer and 66 kg of stale and unhygienic food.

71 quintals of adulterated paneer seized in Cuttack

In Cuttack, a joint enforcement team of the Kataka Municipal Corporation (KMC), led by Health Officer Dr Nupendra Satpathy, seized adulterated paneer worth approximately Rs 17.75 lakh during raids conducted on August 18 and 19.

According to Food Safety Officer Rashmita Behera, the food safety team came across information about adulterated paneer during routine inspections in the KDA sectors area. Further investigation reportedly revealed that the paneer was being supplied to hotels and shops through autos after being sourced from the Nilai area.

Based on the information, the KMC Food Safety Wing conducted raids at several locations, including Press Chhak and the Link Road railway line area, where traders allegedly parked vehicles and distributed the paneer to different establishments.

Over the two-day operation, around 71 quintals of paneer were seized with police assistance. The seized material was transported to the dumping yard at Satichaura.

Samples of the paneer have been collected and sent to a laboratory for detailed chemical analysis. Officials said further legal action would be initiated after the laboratory reports are received.

The KMC has also intensified efforts to identify the manufacturing units allegedly involved in producing the adulterated paneer.

66 kg stale food seized in Bhubaneswar

Meanwhile, joint enforcement teams in Bhubaneswar conducted raids at several malls, restaurants and food establishments under the leadership of Designated Officer Satyajit Patel.

The raids were conducted at Nexus Esplanade in Rasulgarh, Symphony Mall at Hanspal, DN Regalia at Patrapada, as well as food establishments in the CRPF, Rasulgarh and Kalinganagar areas.

During the inspections, officials seized around 66 kg of stale and unhygienic food. Ten food samples were collected and sent for further testing.

Authorities also issued closure notices to six food establishments for alleged violations of food safety norms.

Food safety officials have warned that consumption of adulterated food, particularly adulterated paneer, can pose serious health risks.

The enforcement drive has been intensified in view of the upcoming festive season, when demand for sweets, dairy products and other food items increases significantly.

The Food Safety Commissioner has directed officials to continue inspections across the twin cities regularly and ensure appropriate legal action against establishments found violating food safety regulations.