Chandigarh, March 5 Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh announced on Thursday the launch of a targeted campaign for food testing, stating that the government would leave no stone unturned in providing "Shudh Ann" (pure food) to the people of the state.
Singh was chairing a meeting with senior officials, public health experts, and representatives from key regulatory and scientific institutions at his office here.
During the meeting, he directed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a statewide campaign from April 1 to 15, 2026, to extensively check for food adulteration through "Food Safety on Wheels" (FSWs) vans, according to an official release.
Emphasizing that these mobile vans are a crucial tool in the fight against food adulteration, he urged all Food Business Operators (FBOs) and the general public to get their samples tested during this special campaign to ensure that their food complies with safety standards.
The campaign will focus on educating FBOs and utilizing the FSWs for on-the-spot testing, he added.
"Food Safety on Wheels" are mobile food testing vans, equipped to screen for adulteration among major categories of food, including milk, ghee, paneer, water, spices, food supplements, sweets, fruits, vegetables, and other daily consumables.
The minister has also approved a time-bound action plan for systematic sampling and testing of chemical residues and contaminants across the state.
Key studies to be undertaken include an investigation into heavy metal and pesticide contamination in vegetables grown around industrial areas and drains, while nutraceuticals will be comprehensively tested.
A separate study to detect antibiotic residues in poultry, eggs, and meat will also be carried out.
He stressed that the data derived from these studies will guide future regulatory decisions and policy interventions.
Singh directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination, reiterating that food adulteration will not be tolerated and strict action will be initiated against anyone found indulging in such activities.
He urged all FBOs, including street food vendors, to register themselves with the FDA and adopt the "Eat Right, Stay Healthy" approach to contribute to building a healthier and nutritionally secure Punjab.
