The Food Safety Department in Anantnag has prohibited the sale of PriyaGold Butter Delite biscuits after laboratory tests confirmed that the product contained sulphite levels beyond the permissible limit, officials said on Friday.
The ban applies specifically to Batch No. E2SKP02FB of the biscuit, which has been declared unsafe for human consumption.
Lab test flags health risk
According to an official order issued by the Assistant Commissioner, Food Safety, Anantnag, samples of the biscuits were lifted from the local market and sent for analysis to the National Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad.
The Food Analyst, in report No. JK-665/DEC/25/786 dated December 5, 2025, found that the sulphite content in the sample exceeded the limits prescribed under food safety regulations. Based on the findings, the product was categorised as unsafe food.
The biscuits are manufactured by Surya Food & Agro Ltd., Noida, a well-known packaged food producer.
Sale barred across the district
Invoking powers under Section 36(3)(b) of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006, the Designated Officer (Food Safety), Anantnag, Sheikh Zameer Ahmad, ordered an immediate prohibition on the sale of the affected batch across the district.
The ban will remain in force until further instructions are issued by the department.
Officials warned traders and retailers against selling or distributing the product, stating that strict action would be taken against violators under the provisions of the Act.
Why excess sulphite is a concern
Food safety officials said that consumption of products containing sulphites beyond permissible levels can pose health risks, particularly for individuals with sensitivities, asthma or allergic conditions. Sulphites are commonly used as preservatives, but their use is tightly regulated.
Under Section 3(1)(zz)(xi) of the FSSA, manufacturing, selling or distributing food items deemed unsafe is a punishable offence.
Advisory to consumers
The Food Safety Department has advised consumers to check batch numbers carefully before purchasing packaged food items and to avoid consuming the affected batch of PriyaGold Butter Delite biscuits.
Consumers who have already purchased the product are encouraged to return it to the point of sale and report any adverse health effects to local food safety authorities.
The department said routine surveillance and sampling of food products will continue to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
For information on food safety standards in India, see Food Safety and Standards Authority of India on Wikipedia.
Related public health and consumer safety updates are available on newskarnataka.com.
Excerpt (139 characters):
Anantnag food safety officials have banned PriyaGold Butter Delite biscuits after tests found sulphite levels beyond safe limits.