Key Update

Telangana Food Safety officials detected multiple serious violations during an inspection at Lulu Hypermarket in Hyderabad on Monday (May 18, 2026) following a consumer complaint. Authorities found pest infestation in besan flour, atta, and dal products, decayed vegetables, poor hygiene conditions, clogged drains filled with meat waste, and food items sold under expired FSSAI licences.

Poor Hygiene and Pest Activity Found in Kitchen

Officials inspected the hypermarket’s in-house kitchen and found unhygienic conditions along with signs of pest activity. They also discovered decayed vegetables on the premises and improperly stored leftover food inside refrigerators. In the retail section, inspectors found insect infestation in packaged besan flour, atta, and dal products. Officials also identified packaged food items carrying expired FSSAI licences. Several products violated labelling regulations due to the absence of nutritional information, FSSAI licence details, and manufacturer addresses.

Meat Waste Chokes Drains in Butchering Area

Officials found drains clogged with meat waste in the butchering section. The drains emitted a foul smell, which authorities said posed a serious public health concern. As part of the enforcement action, officials seized and destroyed nearly 150 kg of food items, including sweets, oils, flour, and pulses affected by pest infestation. Authorities also collected food samples suspected of adulteration, excessive use of artificial colours, and pest contamination for laboratory analysis.

Consumers Asked to Stay Alert

The Telangana Food Safety Department advised consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing food products from supermarkets, bakeries, eateries, and retail outlets.

Source: The Hindu