Customer Alleges Negligence After Shocking Discovery

Food Safety Department officials inspected a popular sweet stall and its kitchen in Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu after a customer claimed he found a dead scorpion in halwa. Suganthan from Keezha Azhagunatchiyaarpuram near Sankarankovil purchased 1.5 kg of halwa in five packets from the shop on Sunday (July 13). When he opened one packet at home, he allegedly discovered the venomous insect. He released a video showing the scorpion in the sweets and accused the shop of carelessness in preparation and packing. “Since the shop sold halwa with a scorpion, I plan to approach the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum,” the voice in the video said.

Complaint and Viral Video Trigger Swift Action

The video quickly went viral on social media, prompting officials from the Food Safety Department to take action. They inspected the outlet and the kitchen where the halwa is prepared. “We have served a notice to the shop and shared the visuals with the owner for clarification. We also directed the shop to improve housekeeping by fixing meshes and sealing gaps to prevent insects from entering. We collected kitchen samples for analysis, and further action will follow based on the report,” said Designated Food Safety Officer Pushparaj.

Shop Denies Allegations, Suspects Foul Play

The shop staff strongly denied negligence. “We maintain strict cleanliness at all times. Halwa is extremely hot when packed, so no insect can get near it. We suspect foul play and will file a police complaint to protect our reputation,” sources from the shop stated.

Source: The Hindu