Introduction

The Food Safety Department of Telangana has expanded its inspection efforts beyond Hyderabad to improve food safety standards across the state. On Saturday, task force squads inspected various restaurants in Karimnagar district and uncovered multiple violations of hygiene and safety regulations.

Report

Inspectors found serious issues at the Maitri Hotel in Karimnagar, including uncovered dustbins near the cooking area, spiderweb surfaces, and significant oil and dirt buildup. They discovered raw and partially cooked food left uncovered, allowing flies to access it. Additionally, the establishment lacked Medical Fitness Certificates for its food handlers and did not maintain pest control records. Inspectors also noted the use of synthetic food colours in food preparation and observed poor hygiene in the kitchen and storage areas.

At Blue Sea Tea and Snacks in Regimental Bazar, inspectors noted that the FSSAI license was not displayed. The cramped kitchen environment hindered cleaning efforts, attracting cockroaches and rats. Inspectors found unevenly patched and stained walls, inadequate ventilation and lighting, and a lack of proper trash bins. This restaurant operated without Medical Fitness Certificates or FoSTaC training certificates.

At Sree Sai Balaji Foods on SD Road in Secunderabad, officers discovered food waste scattered across the kitchen floor and stagnant water in a blocked wash basin. They found both vegetarian and non-vegetarian products stored together, along with spoiled lemons. Some refrigerators were dirty and filled with food scraps, and items such as buns, tea powder, and biryani masala lacked proper labelling.

Bottomline

These inspections emphasize the urgent need for improved food safety practices in local establishments.

Source: The Hindu