Introduction

A task force from the Food Safety Department of Telangana raided several restaurants in Hyderabad, including Over The Moon Brew Company, Maredumilli Restaurant, and Dine-O-China in Gachibowli, on Friday, October 4. The raids revealed numerous hygiene violations.

Alleged Violations

Inspectors found multiple issues at Over the Moon Brew Company, including the absence of a visible FSSAI license, cockroach infestation, improperly labelled food, and expired kali mirch (black pepper). They also discovered seven packets of BBQ sauce without FSSAI certification and spoiled raw vegetables. The restaurant did not provide medical fitness certificates for its food handlers.

At Maredumilli Restaurant, inspectors identified similar violations. They found cockroaches inside the kitchen fridge, stagnant water in clogged drains, and expired khoya (a dairy product). The restaurant also lacked insect-proof screens and properly fitted doors, though it kept pest control records. Many food items were stored without proper labels.

Inspectors also found serious issues at Dine-O-China. They noted the absence of a visible FSSAI license, loose windows and doors that allowed pests to enter, and missing medical fitness certificates and water analysis reports. They also observed water stagnation due to clogged drains and improperly labelled food in the refrigerator.

The task force carried out further raids at Silver Bawarchi Restaurant and Bakers, Kakatiya Military Hotel, and Babai Hotel in Patancheruvu. Inspectors uncovered several food safety violations, including cockroach infestation.