Report

Food Safety and Fisheries Department officials conducted a surprise inspection at Elliot’s Beach, Besant Nagar, Chennai on Wednesday evening. They seized 5 kg of stale and decayed fish from vendors. They also collected samples of 11 fish varieties and sent them to a NABL-accredited lab for further analysis.

Customer Complaint Sparks Investigation

The inspection followed a complaint from a couple who found at least 20 worms in a King Mackerel (Vanjiram) they had purchased for ₹900 on Sunday evening. When they confronted the vendor, a dispute broke out. After media reports highlighted the issue, authorities launched an investigation.

Officials Inspect 12 Fish Stalls During Peak Hours

Between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM, the food safety team, led by Dr. Satheesh Kumar, Chennai’s designated officer, inspected 12 fish stalls at the beach. They collected samples of Red Snapper (Sankara), King Mackerel (Vanjiram), White Snapper (White Kilanga), Trevally (Parai), Barramundi (Koduva), and Threadfin (Illa) for laboratory testing.

Strict Action for Food Safety Violations

Authorities issued notices to vendors violating food safety norms and instructed them to obtain a valid FSSAI license. Officials emphasized the need for hygienic handling and proper storage of fish to ensure consumer safety. If lab results confirm contamination, authorities will take strict action against the offenders.

Training Programme for Vendors

To improve food safety awareness, the department will organize a Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) programme for fish vendors. This training will focus on safe food handling and meat hygiene.  Officials assured that routine inspections and strict monitoring will co; ntinue to maintain high food safety standards in Chennai’s fish markets.

Source: Times of India