UP: Barcode-Based Sample Testing, 'Food Safety Connect' App Launched To Curb Adulteration And Ensure Transparency

Chief Minister on Wednesday called food adulteration and counterfeit medicines a “social crime” and a major threat to public health. Chairing a high level meeting with the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA), officials were directed to take stringent action against offenders, ordering their photos be displayed at intersections for public awareness.

The CM directed testing of milk, ghee, cheese, oils, and spices at production points, and called for special teams to conduct frequent inspections. He stressed the need to identify professional blood donors and maintain strict oversight, reiterating that public health is the state’s highest priority.

Twelve new food and drug labs have been established across the state, with three microbiology labs in Lucknow, Meerut, and Varanasi now operational. Pathogen testing has begun in Lucknow and Meerut. To tackle fake medicines, a password-protected barcode system has been introduced to secure sample testing, with digital scientific reports vetted by senior officials.

To engage citizens, the FSDA launched the ‘Food Safety Connect’ app and a toll-free helpline.

CM instructed officials to close complaints only after the complainant is satisfied.

The CM was also briefed on Rs 1,470 crore worth of approved investments in pharmaceuticals, creating over 65,000 new jobs, with a directive to expedite FSDA staff recruitment.