Food Safety Raids Expose Shocking Violations at 28 Food Establishments

Food safety violations have come to light at several food establishments across the district, raising concerns over public health. Officials found that some traders were preparing sweets, khari and other food products using substandard ingredients and unhygienic methods. During inspections conducted on Tuesday, 14 enforcement teams visited 28 hotels, restaurants and food manufacturing units across the city. The inspections revealed serious lapses in food preparation, storage and hygiene standards, including conditions that could pose health risks to consumers.

The enforcement teams inspected spice manufacturing units, packaged drinking water facilities, sweet shops and bakeries, among other establishments. They identified nearly 9,645 kg of food products manufactured in violation of regulations, with an estimated value of ₹17,28,495, and destroyed the stock. Three establishments — a sweet and bakery shop in Mirchi Compound, a sweets and ice cream unit in Dubbala, and bakeries in Auto Nagar — were found operating without Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licences and were ordered to shut down. Officials also found expired chilli powder, turmeric and ginger being used, food prepared and stored directly on floors, and rodents, cockroaches and flies in the premises. Substandard, unlabelled and loosely packed spice powders were also found. Officials collected 26 samples and sent them to Hyderabad for testing. Food Safety Department Deputy Director Sunitha said action would be taken against businesses violating the prescribed standards.