Officials told KNT that the sample, manufactured by Surya Food and Agro Ltd Noida, was lifted from the local market and sent to the National Food Laboratory Ghaziabad for analysis. The laboratory report, numbered JK-665/DEC/25/786 and dated December 5, 2025, declared the product unsafe for consumption due to excessive sulphite content.

Authorities warned that consumption of food items containing sulphite levels above the prescribed standards may pose health risks. Designated Officer Sheikh Zameer Ahmad invoked provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 to order an immediate ban on the sale of the contaminated batch across Anantnag district.

Officials said the action has been taken in the interest of public health to prevent unsafe food products from reaching consumers. They added that surveillance of market samples will continue and further measures will follow as required. (KNT)