Key Update

Food Safety Department officials in Vijayawada have urged citizens visiting the city’s Eat Streets (Night Food Courts) to stay alert after inspections revealed that vendors are using hazardous synthetic food colours and tasting salts. Inspectors found these additives in popular items, including biryani, shawarma, ice cream, tandoori and fried chicken, and veg manchurian.

Officials Destroy Adulterated Food

Food Controller B. Srinivas said the department raided stalls at the BRTS Road Junction and the IGMC Stadium food courts on MG Road. During the operation, officials destroyed around 130 kg of chicken that vendors had artificially coloured. Vendors had added the colours to biryani and shawarma chicken to make the food look more appealing and attract more buyers, in a way that customers could not easily detect.

Vendors Flee; Team Removes Coloured Rice Layer

During the inspection, some stall owners fled the spot, while others cooperated with officials to destroy the coloured chicken and remove the artificially coloured top layer of biryani rice from their stalls. Officials inspected about 50 food stalls across the two night food courts and sensitised the vendors about the health risks of synthetic colours and tasting salts.

Department Plans Regular Checks and Legal Action

Srinivas said the department aims to keep both night food courts free from harmful substances. To achieve this, officials will conduct weekly surprise raids, distribute pamphlets, hold awareness sessions and file criminal cases against violators until the problem is brought under control.

Source: The Times of India