Report

In a major crackdown on food safety violations, authorities in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, found 36 food samples from 12 leading restaurant chains substandard.  According to media reports, outlets of brands like KFC, McDonald’s, Subway, Pizza Hut, Haldiram’s, Barista, and Domino’s failed multiple food safety tests. The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA), under the Yogi Adityanath-led government, conducted inspections across the city. Officials uncovered serious lapses, including the use of stale ingredients, the presence of harmful bacteria, adulteration, and improper food handling. In response, the department issued notices, sealed outlets, collected samples, and launched further investigations.

Major Chains Face Food Safety Violations

Here’s a breakdown of violations reported at various outlets in Lucknow:

• KFC (Saharaganj) – Used reused oil for frying. Notice issued.
• McDonald’s (Hazratganj) – Detected synthetic colours in fried items. Notice issued.
• Dastarkhwan (Hazratganj) – Served stale mutton and foul-smelling gravy. Outlet sealed.
• Pizza Hut – Used non-edible grade materials in sauces. Notice issued.
• Burger King – Found bacteria in mayonnaise. Sample sent for lab testing.
• Subway – Stored chopped vegetables in the open. Notice issued.
• Domino’s – Repackaged expired products with new labels. Notice issued.
• Biryani Blues – Used excessive artificial flavouring. Sample failed; fine expected.
• Barista – Detected bacteria in ice. Notice issued.
• Chhappan Bhog – Found adulteration in condensed milk. Samples collected.
• Haldiram’s – Used substandard oil in snacks. Warning issued.
• Wow Momo – Neglected hygiene; the momo water had a foul smell. Notice issued.

FSDA Takes Swift Action

The FSDA didn’t hold back. Inspectors sealed outlets where violations posed serious health risks and issued notices or warnings at all affected locations. They also collected samples for detailed lab analysis and prepared to impose fines where needed.

FSSAI’s Role in Ensuring Safe Food

This enforcement drive reflects broader efforts to uphold food safety standards across India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food quality nationwide by setting benchmarks, issuing licenses, and ensuring compliance. Food regulators routinely collect samples and test them at state, private, and FSSAI-approved referral laboratories. FSSAI’s core mission is to ensure that food sold in the country is safe, hygienic, and suitable for human consumption.

Source: Zee Business