The health squad of Thrissur Corporation recently conducted raids on several hotels in the city to ensure food safety compliance. As many as 27 hotels were inspected; unfortunately, stale food was seized from a few.

Violations of Food Safety Norms

Health officials observed several violations of norms during the inspections. These included:

• Unhygienic Practices: Some kitchen staff were not wearing gloves and head caps while handling food.
• Refrigerator Hygiene: Many hotels continued to use refrigerators that did not adhere to hygiene protocols.

Repeated Warnings Disregarded

Thrissur Mayor M. K. Varghese expressed disappointment at the hotels’ disregard for food safety security norms despite repeated warnings. The corporation plans to continue similar raids in the coming days. The health squad will be equipped with vehicles fitted with beacon lights to respond promptly to emergencies and address complaints.

Hotels Involved

Some of the hotels from which stale food was seized include:

1. The Vigneshwara Grand Pure Vegetarian
2. Cook Door
3. Park Hotel
4. Churutti Tea Shop
5. Royal Hotel

The corporation has instructed these establishments to make necessary changes to comply with food safety protocols.

Food Safety Beyond the Kitchen

• Grocery Shopping: Check for damaged packaging, inspect fruits and vegetables, and follow the “first in, first out” rule.
• Picnics and BBQs: Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. Invest in insulated containers and ice packs.
• Restaurant Dining: Observe cleanliness, ask about food sourcing, and don’t hesitate to send back undercooked dishes.

Stay Informed and Educated

Food safety guidelines evolve, so stay updated. Follow reputable sources, attend workshops, and empower yourself with knowledge. Remember, safe food isn’t just a choice; it’s our responsibility. Let’s embark on this journey together, ensuring that every meal we prepare or consume contributes to our well-being.