Srinagar, October 27: The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has suspended the licence of M/s ARWAH Packaged Drinking Water, located at Kakan Maran in Budgam district, following the detection of multiple food safety violations during an inspection conducted on October 5, 2026.
According to an official communication issued by the Office of the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, the action was initiated after a complaint was received against the unit. During the inspection, the Food Safety Officer identified deficiencies related to water quality monitoring, food safety management and statutory documentation.
The inspection reportedly revealed that the unit lacked an adequate system for testing and monitoring the quality of water being processed and packaged for human consumption. The required records and documentation were also not produced for verification.
Furthermore, the bottle-capping and sealing mechanism was found to be defective, resulting in leakage and raising concerns regarding the effectiveness of quality-control measures, hygienic manufacturing practices and the integrity of the packaged drinking water.
Licence Suspended Until Further Orders
The FDA stated that a show-cause notice was issued to the Food Business Operator on October 7, 2026, seeking an explanation regarding the violations observed during the inspection. However, no response was received within the stipulated period.
Consequently, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Budgam, exercising powers under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, ordered the suspension of the unit’s licence until further orders.
The unit has also been directed to cease all activities at its premises until further orders.
FDA Emphasises Strict Food Safety Compliance
The department noted that packaged drinking water falls under a high-risk food category identified by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), requiring stringent quality-control measures and effective regulatory oversight.
Manufacturers are required to ensure that water processed and packaged for human consumption complies with applicable food safety standards. Adequate testing, regular monitoring, proper documentation and hygienic controls must be maintained throughout the manufacturing process.
Consumers Asked to Report Unsafe Food Products
The Food & Drugs Administration has urged consumers to report any suspected unsafe or adulterated food products to the department.
Complaints can be submitted via email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.
The official communication, dated October 27, 2026, was issued by the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, Jammu and Kashmir, with a copy forwarded to the Joint Director Information, Jammu/Kashmir, for wider publicity through print and electronic media.
