Srinagar, Jan 7: The Food Safety Department has imposed a ban on the sale of Cremica Digestive biscuits in Anantnag district after laboratory analysis found the product unsafe for human consumption due to sulphite content exceeding prescribed limits.
Officials said a Food Safety Officer collected the biscuit sample from Larnoo during routine inspection. The sample, marketed under the brand name Cremica Digestive bearing Lot No. BD10K25, was manufactured and marketed by Mrs. Bector’s Food Specialities Ltd.
According to the test report issued by the National Food Laboratory, the sample failed to meet food safety standards. “The product was declared unsafe on account of sulphite content exceeding the maximum prescribed limit,” the laboratory stated in its report numbered JK-794/JAN/26/910, dated Jan 1, 2026.
Designated Officer, Food Safety, Anantnag, Sheikh Zameer Ahmad said the decision was taken in the interest of public health. “Consumption of food items containing sulphite beyond permissible limits can pose serious health risks, particularly for sensitive individuals,” he said.
Invoking powers under Section 36(3)(b) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, Ahmad ordered an immediate prohibition on the manufacture, sale, and distribution of the said product within Anantnag district. “The manufacture and sale of unsafe food is prohibited under the Act, and strict action is necessary to protect consumers,” he added.
Officials said the ban will remain in force until further orders. Food business operators have been directed to immediately stop the sale of the product and ensure full compliance with food safety regulations. The department has warned that any violation of the order will attract action under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
This is not the first such action in the district. On December 12 last year, authorities in Anantnag had similarly banned the sale of a batch of Priyagold Butter Delite biscuits after a government laboratory confirmed sulphite levels beyond the permissible limit. [KNT]
