Key Update

The Kerala Health Department has issued an order stating that food items seized during inspections to ensure hygiene and quality in restaurants must not be publicly displayed. The order also instructs officials not to share information about seized substandard food with the media.

Secrecy Concerns Inside the Department

The directive, issued on October 23 to strengthen inspections and enforcement, includes an unusual clause that has raised concerns. Citing this instruction, officials have stopped giving media updates even when they seize old or spoiled food. All actions are now handled in secrecy, and a section of employees within the department openly opposes this shift.

Media Role Crucial for Transparency

Although the order calls for strict action against establishments serving unsafe food, it remains unclear why reporting such actions in the media is considered “unnecessary.” Officials point out that media coverage creates public awareness and helps maintain food safety standards. Officials also warn that this clause may enable restaurant owners to bribe inspectors and escape action, as the process has become less transparent. They are demanding clarity in the order and the removal of the clause restricting information estricting information sharing.

Source: Mathrubhumi