Concerns Rise Over Impure Dressed Meat Supplied in Kashmir

The supply of dressed meat, including chicken, lamb, and beef, to the region of Kashmir, has become a subject of controversy, with allegations that it fails to meet the requirements of Islamic slaughter practices. The use of this meat in popular fast-food items, such as steam-filled dumplings known as “momos,” further exacerbates the situation.

Questions have been raised regarding whether the companies responsible for packaging the meat in Styrofoam containers adhere to Islamic rules of slaughter. The lack of knowledge surrounding the origin of the meat, apart from its arrival from Jamia Masjid Delhi and its presumed Halal status, has added to the mystery. Profits seem to take precedence over concerns about consumer welfare, according to Manzoor Ahmad Dar, President of the Urban Poultry Dealers Association.

Disturbingly, the dressed chicken supplied to fast-food vendors in Kashmir is alleged to be injected with preservatives, including sodium lactate and potassium lactate, to extend its shelf life. It is also claimed that hazardous preservatives are added to the meat. Furthermore, reports suggest that some farmers use antibiotics to unnaturally raise chickens, similar to the practice of injecting red dyes into fruits to enhance their taste and appearance.

These practices pose serious health risks, especially considering the high consumption of white meat in Kashmir. While the Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department conducts testing at various check posts, concerns remain regarding the smuggling of impure-dressed chicken into the valley.

Mohammad Maqbool Bhat, President of the Kashmir Valley Poultry Farmers Association, supports claims that a variety of dressed chicken, obtained at extremely low rates, is distributed among fast-food vendors. He specifically mentions the use of dressed chicken in popular dishes like instant pot steamed dumplings or momos, endangering the lives of consumers.

Officials from the relevant departments, such as the Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, have acknowledged the issue and pledged to investigate. Market inspections and coordination among allied departments are expected to be intensified to identify and take action against those involved in these illegal practices.

The health of the public remains a top priority, and the authorities assure the people of Kashmir that necessary actions will be taken to address this concerning situation.