Key Development

Students staying at the hostel of a private institute in Knowledge Park 2, Noida, raised serious food safety concerns after alleging that worms were found in the food served at the mess. Several students shared videos on social media showing the suspected contamination, triggering widespread attention and concern.

Food Safety Officials Conduct Inspection

Acting on the viral videos, the Noida food safety department carried out an inspection of the hostel mess kitchen on Tuesday evening, despite not receiving a formal written complaint. During the inspection, officials found the kitchen and storeroom in an unhygienic condition. Food items were stored improperly, and overall cleanliness did not meet the prescribed hygiene standards.

Show-Cause Notice Issued Under Food Safety Law

Based on the inspection findings, the department issued a show-cause notice under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Officials cited unhygienic kitchen conditions and poor maintenance of the food storage area. Authorities warned that they would initiate further legal action if the institute fails to rectify the deficiencies within the stipulated time. To assess food quality and safety, officials collected samples of prepared vegetables, chickpeas, and split chickpeas (also known as chana dal). The department sent the samples to a laboratory for testing to check for substandard or unsafe food.

Campus Unrest Follows Food Safety Allegations

Following the incident, students protested inside the hostel mess and later gathered at the institute gate. Videos from the scene showed students throwing plates and clashing briefly with security guards. Police intervened and brought the situation under control through discussions with students and the institute authorities.

Further Action Hinges on Test Results

Police confirmed that neither side filed a written complaint and that the institute arranged alternative food options for students. Food safety officials stated that they will decide further action based on the laboratory test reports and the institute’s compliance with the notice. Authorities reiterated that they will take strict action if they confirm violations of food safety norms.

Source: The Times of India