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Nepal has barred the import, sale and distribution of Priyagold biscuits made by India based Surya Food and Agro Ltd, after food safety concerns flagged by Indian authorities.Nepal’s Food Technology and Quality Control Department (FTQCD) announced the restrictions in a notice issued on Monday, classifying the biscuits as sub-standard.
The move follows action by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which has suspended the manufacturer's licence and initiated legal proceedings for prosecution.According to FSSAI, an inspection of Surya Food and Agro revealed serious deficiencies in food safety and hygiene. The regulator also initiated prosecution proceedings against the company for using cattle feed bran in the manufacture of Priyagold biscuits, along with other serious violations.Citing FSSAI’s notice, Nepal's food department decided to prohibit the biscuits from entering or being sold in the country. The decision was taken during an emergency meeting held virtually at the initiative of department director general Sanjeev Kumar Karna.The department said that the restrictions were imposed with human health security and consumer welfare in mind.Following the ban, the FTQCD has asked relevant bodies, traders and consumers to refrain from importing Priyagold biscuits and ensure that their sale and distribution are stopped.It has also directed authorised importers and food traders to immediately recall any stocks of the biscuits that may still be available in the market.