Following a directive from the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC), Gwalia Sweets has made rapid food testing kits available at 15 of its outlets to support preliminary checks of sweets and namkeen.The AMC Food Department has asked sweet and namkeen shops across the city to keep rapid testing kits at their premises and ensure they are properly used as part of efforts to improve food quality checks and consumer safety.
Rapid Kits for Preliminary Checks
The AMC said the kits are intended for primary screening at the shop level. However, the civic body clarified that rapid tests are only a supportive measure and cannot replace official food sampling and laboratory testing carried out under Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations.The Food Department is facilitating the availability of the kits and coordinating with food businesses to encourage wider adoption.
Other Sweet Shops Seek AMC Assistance
Besides Gwalia Sweets, other prominent sweet shops, including Jayhind, Shreeji and Kandoi, have approached the AMC for assistance in procuring rapid testing kits.The civic body had earlier written to the Sweet Manufacturers/Sellers Association, urging its members to keep the kits at their establishments for preliminary testing of sweets and namkeen.
Traders Responsible for Food Quality
The AMC has said shopkeepers are responsible for ensuring that only safe and quality food products are sold to consumers. The rapid testing facility is aimed at helping traders conduct basic checks at their premises before products reach customers.The Food Department said it will continue monitoring the implementation of the initiative and work with food business operators through guidance, awareness and regulatory action to strengthen food safety and protect consumer interests.