LUCKNOW, Aug. 28 -- A sweet-making unit allegedly operating without a valid food licence was shut down in Lucknow on Thursday after food safety department officials found around 200 kg of sweets unfit for human consumption stored under unhygienic conditions. The stock was destroyed on the spot. Acting on specific information, a joint team of officials conducted a surprise inspection at Rinku's sweet-making unit in Niwa Kasimpur Kheda. Officials collected samples of peda, skimmed milk powder, refined soybean oil and edible silver foil for laboratory testing to ascertain their quality. The team also seized 180 litres of refined soybean oil, valued at around Rs.40,860 as it suspected its quality. Officials said the operator failed to produce a valid food licence required for running the establishment. The unit was consequently closed with immediate effect under provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. htc...