Key Update

Food safety teams of the Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) carried out surprise inspections at cinema theatres operating inside malls in Hyderabad on Friday, June 19, uncovering multiple hygiene, storage, and compliance violations.

PVR Inox, Inorbit Mall: Expired and Spoiled Food Discarded

At PVR Inox in Inorbit Mall, officials found expired sev and spoiled cauliflower and immediately removed them from service. Inspectors also identified poor housekeeping around the soft drink dispensing area, noticed labelling inconsistencies on certain food products, and found cooked chicken tikka stored in a freezer, raising concerns about food handling practices.

Cinepolis, Lulu Mall: Improper Storage and Oil Quality Concerns

At Cinepolis in Lulu Mall, inspection teams found dustbins without lids and improperly stored boiled pasta kept in a freezer. Used cooking oil showed a total polar compounds (TPC) level of 21.5. Authorities also noted that some frozen food items were left open and unsealed, and that the cola-dispensing counter required improved cleanliness and maintenance.

Inox, GSM Mall: Labelling Gaps and Missing Records

At Inox in GSM Mall, Madeenaguda, officials found incomplete labelling on burger buns and sandwich bread. They also observed uncovered dustbins at food counters and noted that the outlet had assigned a three-day shelf life to chicken tikka without supporting technical documentation. In addition, inspectors flagged the absence of water-quality testing records and packaging-material testing documents used in food preparation and service.

The inspections highlight ongoing concerns about hygiene standards, documentation practices, and safe food storage at high-footfall food service outlets operating within entertainment venues.

Source: The Hindu