Uttar Pradesh Strengthens Food and Drug Safety with New Testing Labs

Lucknow, November 10 (Daily Kiran) : The government of Uttar Pradesh is intensifying its efforts to ensure the quality of food and drugs. In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has established testing laboratories in all 18 divisions of the state. Twelve new labs have been set up, while six existing ones have been upgraded.

This expansion will increase the annual testing capacity for food items from 30,000 to 108,000 samples and for drugs from 12,500 to 60,000 samples. With faster testing processes, the FSDA aims to enhance its effectiveness in taking action against adulterators and those dealing in substandard products.

Adulteration in food products often involves the use of prohibited or substandard substances to enhance color, sweetness, and flavor. Prolonged consumption of such products poses serious health risks, including increased chances of cancer, liver, and kidney diseases. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and the sick, face even higher risks.

Similarly, substandard medications can adversely affect patient treatment outcomes, prolonging illnesses and causing additional financial and physical burdens. Chief Minister Adityanath is committed to ensuring that consumers receive quality food and medicines for their money. The FSDA is working to enhance its inspection capabilities and enforcement actions accordingly.

According to departmental information, new laboratories have been established in the divisions of Azamgarh, Basti, Devi Patan, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Kanpur, Chitrakoot Dham, Mirzapur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Aligarh, and Saharanpur. Surveillance testing for samples has already been initiated in Kanpur, Aligarh, Saharanpur, and Ayodhya. As of October 31, surveillance testing has begun in the remaining new labs, while legal drug sample testing is being conducted across all facilities.

The increase in laboratory numbers has significantly boosted the annual testing capacity for drugs. To ensure smooth operations and maximize testing capabilities, adequate human resources are essential. The recruitment process for 357 junior analysts (drugs) has been completed, and the hiring of 457 junior analysts (food) is underway. These appointments will help address staff shortages and expedite testing processes.

The expansion of laboratories will also give momentum to the department’s “Pure is Good” campaign. With an increase in testing scope and timely actions, the FSDA aims to effectively curb food adulteration and the trade of substandard products. This initiative is expected to directly benefit consumers and strengthen the department’s commitment to safeguarding public health.