Key Update

Food safety officials conducted surprise inspections at several biryani and pulao outlets in Visakhapatnam.  The team inspected outlets located near the out gate of the GVMC Main Office. During the inspections, officials found that some vendors were preparing food in unhygienic conditions. The department issued notices to the biryani and pulao outlet owners and directed them to ensure that food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment.

Food Handlers Asked to Follow Hygiene Norms

Officials instructed food handlers to wear masks, caps, and aprons while preparing and serving food. They also directed the outlets to maintain valid physical fitness certificates for staff, ensure proper maintenance of floors, walls, and ceilings, and follow systematic garbage disposal practices.

Food Samples Sent for Testing

Food safety personnel collected 14 samples, including chicken biryani, chicken fry, chicken curry, mutton biryani, fried items, and cooking oil used in the preparation of the dishes. The samples will be sent to a food laboratory for analysis. Officials said they will initiate action against the outlets based on the lab reports. Food safety officials were present during the inspections.

Source: The Hindu