‘Best before date’ on non-packaged sweets: Odisha vendors oppose decision

Bhubaneswar: Sweet sellers across Odisha have strongly opposed the new guidelines enforced by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI )amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Worth mentioning the FSSAI has made it mandatory for confectioners to display the manufacturing and best before dates on their non-packaged sweet items with effect from today to ensure food safety.

However, sweet sellers across the state have unanimously opposed the decision saying that this would cost them more during this crisis situation. At a meeting held here recently, the vendors under the banner of Utkal Mistanna Byabasayee Samitee said it is impossible on their part to do the additional work as all sweet shops are running short of manpower due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“All confectioners in the state have incurred loss due to the pandemic. There is shortage of manpower also. At this time, it is not possible on our part to take in additional manpower to execute the new guidelines,” said Bimbadhar Behera, president of  the committee.

The body also asked as to why the guidelines have not been issued for those selling bakery items with high prices and making good money.  The sweet sellers expressed their dissatisfaction over  the Centre’s decision at a meting held here on  Tuesday.