Stale Meat, Reused Oil: Food Safety Violations Surface in Vijayawada

Food safety inspections in Vijayawada have reportedly exposed several violations at eateries and bakeries. During a recent inspection at the Eat Street area, officials found that cooking oil at a fried chicken outlet was being repeatedly reused. The Total Polar Materials (TPM) reading was recorded at 32, against the prescribed limit of 25, following which a case was registered. Earlier inspections by joint teams from the Food Safety and Weights & Measures departments also reportedly found unhygienic food preparation, improperly stored food, excessive use of food colours and products being sold without proper date markings. Around 100 kg of stored meat and other bakery products were seized during the inspections.

Inspections at establishments in areas including Satyanarayanapuram and Gurunanak Nagar reportedly revealed further violations. Officials found a bakery allegedly operating without the required permissions, along with bread and other products without proper date markings and spoiled items stored in refrigeration units. Meat products were also reportedly found despite the establishment not having permission for such items, including chicken that had allegedly been stored for several days. At another restaurant, officials reportedly found cooked chicken, mutton and rice that had been prepared days earlier and were allegedly being served to customers. Officials have stressed the need for regular inspections and strict action against violations. Staff shortages in the Food Safety and Weights & Measures departments have reportedly affected routine inspections, with checks often being initiated following consumer complaints.