SHILLONG, Aug 14: The Commissionerate of Food Safety, Meghalaya, has ordered an immediate statewide freeze on the sale, stocking and distribution of \u2018Sting\u2019 energy drink across the state.
\nThe decision follows demands by the A\u2022chik State Peoples\u2019 Front (ASPF) for action after the alleged death of a student linked to consumption of the energy drink.
\nCommissioner of Food Safety Dr Joram Beda issued the statutory order on Friday under Section 38(1)(c) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The order cites public health concerns and formal representations regarding the safety, potential health hazards and labelling non-compliance of the caffeinated beverage.
\nInitial enforcement reports indicated widespread accessibility and consumption of the product among schoolchildren and adolescents without adequate verification of its caffeine levels, ingredients and mandatory statutory warnings.
\nAs a precautionary measure, the Commissionerate has directed an immediate freeze on the commercial availability of Sting pending laboratory analysis.
\nAll Food Business Operators \u2014 including manufacturers, stockists, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, vendors and online delivery platforms \u2014 have been ordered to stop the sale, display, stocking, marketing or distribution of the drink in any form or batch with immediate effect.
\nExisting stocks must be isolated and maintained under complete status quo. Any movement, transfer or secret disposal of the frozen stock will invite proceedings under Sections 55 and 57 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the related Rules and Regulations of 2011.
\nThe prohibition will remain in force across all districts until further orders from the Food Safety Commissionerate after evaluation of the official laboratory reports.<\/p>\n