Key Update

Karnataka’s food safety authorities have shut down a juice counter at a PVR INOX multiplex in Bengaluru after a complaint alleged that the outlet reused disposable cups to serve beverages. The action followed a video of the alleged practice that went viral on social media, sparking public criticism and raising concerns about hygiene standards at cinema food and beverage counters.

Karnataka’s Minister for Health and Family Welfare, UT Khader, confirmed the action in a post on X on Thursday night. He said food safety officials inspected the PVR INOX outlet at Forum Mall, Konanakunte Cross, Bengaluru, following the complaint. During the inspection, officials found violations of food safety regulations, issued a notice to the establishment, and shut down its juice counter.

Viral Video Triggers Public Outrage

The incident came to light on November 5, when Instagram user Mithil Kumar shared a video allegedly showing staff collecting used disposable beverage cups and reusing them at the PVR INOX multiplex in Bengaluru’s Forum Mall.

The video drew widespread criticism, with social media users questioning the hygiene practices at multiplex food and beverage counters. Several users also raised concerns about the potential health risks of reusing disposable cups. The incident also reignited discussions about the high prices of food and beverages at cinema halls, with consumers questioning whether multiplexes maintain adequate hygiene standards.

UT Khader emphasised that food safety regulations apply equally to large brands and small vendors. He stressed that public health must take priority over business interests and urged food businesses to follow hygiene and safety requirements strictly. The minister also encouraged consumers to report unhygienic food handling, packaging, and serving practices by scanning the Food Safety QR code and filing complaints. He assured the public that authorities would investigate every complaint.

Forum Mall Issues Apology

Following the backlash, Forum South Bengaluru issued an apology through its official Instagram account. The mall said the PVR team was investigating the incident and assured customers that it would take the complaint seriously and initiate appropriate action. Meanwhile, PVR INOX had not issued an official statement on the incident at the time of publication, according to media reports.

Source: NDTV