Rotten Meat Scam: Calls grow louder for comprehensive food testing Laboratory in JK
Public, traders and experts seek stronger safeguards amid rising food safety concerns
By : Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: Growing concerns over food safety in Jammu and Kashmir have sparked fresh calls for the establishment of a state-of-the-art, fully equipped food testing laboratory in the region.
Residents, traders and consumer rights groups say such a facility is urgently needed to ensure that adulterated or unsafe products are swiftly identified before they reach the market.
The demand has intensified following a series of recent incidents in which substandard and unfit-for-consumption food items were allegedly found in circulation. Public outrage over these cases has reignited debate about the absence of a modern, locally based testing centre capable of conducting rapid, accurate analysis of meat, poultry, dairy, and other consumables.
“Right now, the system is slow and fragmented. Samples often have to be sent outside the Union Territory for advanced testing, which delays results and enforcement,” said Shabir Ahmad, a food industry professional. “A dedicated lab in J&K would mean faster intervention and better deterrence against malpractice.”
Consumer activists point out that the region’s expanding food supply chain—from local markets to large-scale imports—requires stricter quality checks to protect public health. “The public deserves to know that what’s on their plate is safe. Without strong testing infrastructure, we are always reacting after the damage is done,” said Amina Bano, a Srinagar-based consumer rights advocate.
Food traders have also expressed support for the proposal, saying that credible, timely certification would not only protect consumers but also build trust in the market.
“We are the first to suffer reputational damage when such scandals break. A centralised, accredited lab would help ensure accountability and fairness,” said Tariq Malik, a wholesale food supplier.
A senior official in the Food Safety Department, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that discussions about upgrading local testing facilities are underway. “The government is actively exploring options for a comprehensive food testing laboratory with advanced equipment, trained staff, and the capacity to handle high volumes. Such a facility could be a game-changer for public health,” the official said.
Public health experts argue that alongside infrastructure, there must be regular inspections, stronger enforcement, and public awareness campaigns. “A lab is just one part of the solution. Prevention, education, and strict penalties for violations are equally important,” said Dr Bashir Lone, a health safety consultant.
For now, the demand from civil society remains clear: J&K needs its own modern food testing laboratory—one that can respond quickly, deliver reliable results, and help restore confidence in the safety of the region’s food supply.
