Mysore/Mysuru: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. K.V. Rajendra has directed officials to file cases against those who sell food items prepared using harmful colours and bad quality oil.

He was addressing a meeting at his Office in Siddarthanagar on Friday about the effective implementation of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

“We must safeguard the health of the citizens. Oil with more cholesterol is being used to prepare food items which spoils the health leading to various heart diseases. Vendors also use wax to increase the shelf life of fruits and vegetables which again spoils the health when consumed,” the DC said. “Adulterated food items prepared using harmful colours are sold in a few hotels, bakeries and roadside food joints. There is a need trace such food items and take appropriate action against the vendors. Officials should check the food quality and should take steps to prevent food adulteration,” the DC directed the officials. Pointing out that food vendors should maintain hygiene, the DC said that mutton and chicken vendors should keep their shops clean and dispose the waste properly besides directing the officials to see that these vendors follow the rule.

District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. K.H. Prasad, Information and Public Relations Department Assistant Director T.K. Harish Kumar and officials of various Departments were present.