Srinagar: Seizure of 1200 kilograms of decomposed meat and its destruction later at Zakura in Srinagar outskirts has exposed flaws in Kashmir’s meat supply cold chain with officials now widening their investigation beyond the city limits.

A top-ranking officer from the department overseeing the Kashmir region, while talking to KNO, revealed that while high-end restaurants were unlikely to have used such substandard meat, low-cost eateries and ‘informal vendors’ may have been the primary consumers of the contaminated stock. “We found the meat decomposed because it was not stored at the required cold chain temperatures. In this heat, meat left in unrefrigerated vehicles or ill-equipped storage units can easily spoil,” the officer said, citing the absence of proper packaging and labels on the seized consignment.

The Food Safety Department said the problem was not confined to Srinagar alone and that substandard meat may have made its way to rural markets and smaller eateries across the Valley, raising serious public health concerns.

“This is not limited to Srinagar. The supply of such meat is widespread and reaches rural areas as well,” the officer said, adding that temperature abuse during transportation and storage was a critical factor behind the spoilage.

Responding to speculations of a larger meat supply racket or nexus, the officer said, “We won’t call it a nexus yet. But yes, this reflects a systemic failure in cold chain handling and quality control. Even though the meat had visibly deteriorated, it was still being transported for consumption; that in itself is alarming.”

The officer said that the individual from whose godown the meat was seized has claimed that the spoilt meat was dumped there by someone else and not directly under his knowledge. “We have taken his written statement and are investigating further. The chain of responsibility is being established,” the officer said, indicating that more individuals could be brought under scrutiny in the coming days.

The official confirmed that more enforcement drives and surprise inspections were on the way.

“We will not stop here. The entire region is under surveillance, and our enforcement teams are being mobilised across districts to prevent the distribution of unsafe meat products,” the officer said. He added that public health cannot be compromised.

“Whether it’s a five-star hotel or a roadside Dhaba, the Food Safety and Standards Act applies to all. Everyone dealing in food must follow the rules.”

Responding to a rising perception that rebate schemes and budget-friendly meals at some establishments might be facilitated by the use of substandard meat, the officer said, “There is a possibility that those offering unusually cheap food might be using such low-quality products. It is a disturbing trend and will be investigated thoroughly.”

The officer said that they again urge consumers and food business operators to be vigilant.

“Everyone—retailers, hoteliers, and consumers—must verify the source and condition of the meat they buy. If they notice anything unusual, they can call our toll-free helpline 104, which remains active for public complaints,” the officer said. (KNO)