Food Manifest 
Key Update
The Department of Food Safety has suspended the licence of a private engineering college’s kitchen near Mela Thidiyoor in Thirunelveli after inspections revealed unhygienic conditions that posed a serious health risk to hostel students. The action followed an outbreak of leptospirosis (rat fever) among students, which prompted the Department of Public Health to order the college’s temporary closure on Thursday. Health officials reported that 15 students had tested positive for the infection, allegedly caused by contaminated water and poor sanitation in the hostel and canteen.
Officials Find Severe Hygiene Lapses
A joint team led by District Health Officer Dr Vijayachandran and Food Safety Designated Officer Dr Pushparaj inspected the hostel, mess, and dining hall on Friday. The team found several violations, including:
-
Untreated water is used for drinking and cooking
-
Unhygienic toilets and stagnant wastewater
-
A kitchen open to the outside, allowing easy entry for insects and animals
-
Walls blackened with stains and spider webs
-
Fungus growth near the grinder used to make idli batter
-
Decayed fruits and vegetables, and raw ingredients stored directly on the floor
Inspectors also noted an unbearable stench from oily stagnant water due to unmaintained drainage channels.
Food Safety Licence Suspended
Based on the inspection, the Food Safety Department suspended the FSSAI licence of the college mess. Officials directed the management to provide safe drinking water, clean storage tanks, and renovate the kitchen before reopening. Health officials confirmed that most affected students have recovered and returned home. The department has set up medical camps for students and staff, as the institution hosts more than 1,000 students. Officials said operations will remain suspended until sanitation and disinfection works are completed.
Source: The Hindu
