Is the Rice You Eat Safe? Substandard Supplies from Punjab To NE States Spark Concerns
First Published: 17th November, 2024 18:38 IST
Samples from these shipments have failed to meet food safety standards, with some batches even deemed hazardous for human consumption.
Is the rice on your plate truly safe? Recent reports have revealed alarming lapses in the quality of rice dispatched from Punjab to north eastern states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Nagaland, as well as Karnataka. Samples from these shipments have failed to meet food safety standards, with some batches even deemed hazardous for human consumption.
In response, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution has stepped in, instructing the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to conduct rigorous inspections of rice stored at key locations in Punjab, including Sangrur, Jalandhar, and Nabha. These sites are among the main sources of the rice shipments.
A ministry directive dated November 13 mandates the immediate removal of substandard stocks from the food supply chain and calls for a detailed investigation into the causes of contamination. The ministry has emphasized the need to prevent such incidents to safeguard public health and ensure food security.
The issue came to light when, on November 12 and 13, quality tests conducted on samples of 11,241 quintals of rice sent to Dimapur in Nagaland and Assam showed the rice failed to meet standards. Even more troubling, 18 wagons carrying 23,097 quintals of rice were found to be infested with insects. Furthermore, fortified rice, which is intended to enhance nutritional benefits, also fell short of the required standards.
The incident has raised serious questions about the integrity of food supplies and the processes in place to ensure quality. Consumers are now left wondering if the rice they consume is genuinely safe, underscoring the urgency of the government’s intervention.
COMMENTS
TOPMOST STORY NOW
Live After US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, Trump hints at possible “regime change”
23rd June 2025
Live “We cannot – and must not – give up on peace”: UN chief Guterres urges de-escalation after US strikes on Iran
23rd June 2025
Live Dalai Lama to make announcement about his reincarnation during upcoming Tibetan Religious Conference
23rd June 2025
Live Closing Strait of Hormuz Would Be a Grave Mistake: US Warns Iran
22nd June 2025
WE RECOMMEND
Arunachal CM Unveils New Adventure Zone at Fong Fong Ma Falls to Boost Eco-Tourism
The new attraction, developed by the Public Works Department, Jang, promises a thrilling experience for tourists and adventure seekers alike.
22nd June 2025
Arunachal: Minor Girls Rescued From Human Trafficking Network, Accused Arrested
The prime suspect Mughaka Awomi , a resident of Dimapur, Nagaland, has been arrested in connection with this case.
22nd June 2025
Guwahati Dentist Missing in Arunachal: 21 Days On, Search Continues; SIT Says Investigating All Angles
His personal belongings were later discovered intact inside his room, but there was no sign of him.
21st June 2025
Bosiram Siram Appointed New Arunachal Congress President
The announcement was made on Wednesday through an official release issued by AICC General Secretary, K.C. Venugopal.
19th June 2025
Blow to NPP in Arunachal as 4 MLAs Switch to PPA, Party Left With Only One Legislator
The change has been recognized by the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and has been formally notified in the state gazette.
16th June 2025