Report

Authorities have uncovered two major instances of unsafe meat distribution this week in Kerala, seizing over 500 kilograms of stale chicken and large quantities of spoiled cooking oil intended for public consumption. In Kummil, Kadakkal (Kollam district), alert residents stopped Suresh Kumar, a meat supplier from Thiruvananthapuram, as he attempted to sell foul-smelling meat to local eateries. Locals noticed a strong stench and promptly alerted the police and health department. Officials took Suresh Kumar into custody and safely buried the contaminated meat.

Meanwhile, in Kaippadamugal, Kalamassery (Ernakulam district), a municipal health team raided a rented residential property used to store meat for hotels. They discovered 500 kg of spoiled chicken and 150 kg of stale cooking oil in freezers that had stopped working. The operation lacked any food safety license.

Widespread Distribution to 49 Hotels Exposed

Officials traced the operation to Junaise, a native of Palakkad, who supplied meat products like shawarma, al-faham, broasted chicken, and sausages to at least 49 eateries across the Ernakulam district. Investigators found delivery logs and invoices confirming large-scale distribution to small restaurants and local shops. The health department sent the spoiled meat and oil for proper disposal at the Brahmapuram waste management facility. Samples were also sent for lab testing to detect harmful bacteria.

Authorities Launch Statewide Action

The Kalamassery municipality issued an immediate closure order for the premises and launched an investigation. Authorities have intensified inspections across the state, especially ahead of the festive and pilgrimage season, when demand for meat products typically spikes. Food safety officers are now planning to inspect other meat storage units, small eateries, and takeaway joints. Legal action is underway against those responsible, and officials have promised heavy fines and prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Public Raises Concerns Over Food Safety Enforcement

The incident sparked strong reactions on social media, especially among Kerala residents, who expressed frustration over repeated lapses in food safety enforcement. Many urged the government to introduce visible hygiene grading for eateries and implement stricter checks at the source of food production and supply.

Health Risks Remain High

Experts warn that stale or improperly stored meat—even if cooked—can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, posing serious health risks. Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food handling or distribution.

Source: Mathrubhumi