Overview

Kochi authorities have intensified food safety surveillance as part of efforts to prevent the spread of communicable diseases during the monsoon season. A joint enforcement team comprising officials from the Kochi Corporation health wing, Food Safety Department, police, and Health Department conducted surprise inspections at roadside food stalls and street food outlets on Wednesday, resulting in the closure of two eateries operating under severely unhygienic conditions.

Inspection Drive targets High-risk Areas

Led by District Medical Officer Dr Shahir Shah, the team inspected 30 establishments in and around the railway station premises and boat jetty areas. During the drive, officials collected drinking water samples from eight establishments that failed to produce valid water quality test reports.

Authorities have sent the samples for laboratory analysis and issued notices to establishments where inspectors identified deficiencies, directing them to implement corrective measures within the prescribed timeframe.

Inspectors uncover Multiple Food Safety Violations

The inspections revealed several practices that could increase the risk of foodborne and waterborne illnesses. Officials found that some food handlers lacked mandatory health cards, while certain establishments used poor-quality drinking water, prepared beverages using spoiled fruits, and stored stale food in refrigerators.

According to health officials, such lapses can compromise food safety and increase the likelihood of disease transmission, particularly during the monsoon season.

Fresh Guidelines issued for Food Establishments

In response to the findings, the Health Department issued a fresh set of guidelines for roadside food vendors, hotels, educational institutions, hostels, and care homes.

The guidelines require food handlers to possess valid health cards and mandate the supply of drinking water boiled for at least 20 minutes. Authorities have also instructed establishments not to mix boiled and unboiled water and to prominently display drinking water test reports, well-chlorination records, and relevant licences.

Focus on Hygiene and Safe Food Handling

Officials have directed food businesses to strengthen hygiene practices across all stages of food handling and preparation. The advisory calls for regular handwashing with soap, maintaining clean nails, and wearing head covers while handling food. The department has also instructed establishments to use only fresh fruits for beverage preparation and to avoid the use of industrial ice. In addition, individuals showing symptoms of illness have been barred from handling food until they recover.

Surveillance to continue during the Monsoon Season

The inspection drive forms part of broader disease prevention measures being implemented across Kerala, where authorities have intensified food safety enforcement and hygiene monitoring amid heightened concerns over monsoon-related outbreaks. Officials said inspections, water quality checks, and compliance monitoring will continue in the coming weeks to ensure food establishments follow safety standards and protect public health.

Source: The New Indian Express