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| Sunday, 19 January 2003 |
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| News Business Features Editorial
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CMC zeroes on supermarkets : Crack squad to detect substandard items by Shanika Sriyananda Liyanage Food Inspectors attached to the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) have launched a special search operation within the Colombo city limits, recently, to detect substandard food items sold in supermarkets. Over 15 big supermarkets are located in the city and the CMC receive complaints almost daily from the public about low quality food stuff. CMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Pradeep Kariyawasam said that the CMC continue to conduct regular raids to have thorough checks, especially food items. The Inspectors will scrutinise for proper labelling, weight, ingredients indicated in at least two languages, date of manufacture and expiry including all beverages. According to Dr. Kariyawasam, at present they receive more complaints from the public than earlier. " Consumer awareness is high and we also received an equal number last year", he said. A hot-line has been set up at the CMC recently to record complaints. A special unit, which investigate into these complaints, is armed with a special team of officers and a vehicle. " The officers are stand by at any given time to raid places, including supermarkets which sell substandard food items", said Dr. Kariyawasam who heads the Unit. Those who found guilty of selling low quality food stuff will have to face a maximum fine of Rs. 5,000, under the Food Act. Those who purchase or detect any substandard food item, including soft drinks can make a complaint to the CMC (Hot-line 676161). |
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