Hyderabad Restaurants Face Hygiene Raids
Raids Uncover Hygiene Violations in Hyderabad Restaurants
In a significant step towards ensuring public health, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) conducted food safety inspections at several restaurants in Lakdikapul on November 26. The raids revealed shocking hygiene violations, including the use of synthetic food colors, unsanitary kitchens, and the presence of pests. The inspections targeted prominent establishments such as Khan-E-Khas, Shahi Dastarkhan, and Bademiyan Kababs, which failed to meet basic food safety standards.
Khan-E-Khas: Alarming Conditions Found
The inspection at Khan-E-Khas exposed a host of food safety issues:
- Lack of FSSAI License: The restaurant was operating without the mandatory license, a critical violation.
- Unhygienic Practices: Inspectors found leftover food from the previous day, stored improperly in a refrigerator contaminated with unsanitary conditions.
- Pest Problems: Rat faeces were discovered on shelves used for raw food storage, indicating a rodent infestation.
- Neglected Maintenance: Broken tiles, water stagnation, and the absence of insect-proof screens worsened the situation.
- Missing Documentation: The restaurant lacked pest control records, medical fitness certificates, and water analysis reports.
These findings highlight the pressing issue of hygiene violations in Hyderabad restaurants, particularly in such popular establishments.
Shahi Dastarkhan: Cockroach Infestation and Expired Food
Shahi Dastarkhan also faced serious allegations of unhygienic conditions:
- Cockroach Infestation: Live cockroaches were observed in the kitchen, which lacked insect-proof measures.
- Expired Food Items: Inspectors discarded expired products such as mango masala and coconut milk stored in the restaurant’s pantry.
- Structural Neglect: Greasy walls, patchy flooring, and stagnant water due to clogged drains highlighted a disregard for cleanliness.
Despite maintaining medical fitness certificates for staff, the establishment fell short of acceptable hygiene standards, amplifying concerns over hygiene violations in Hyderabad restaurants.
Bademiyan Kababs: Synthetic Food Colors Found
At Bademiyan Kababs, the situation was equally concerning:
- Synthetic Additives: The suspected use of synthetic food colors in kababs and Chinese dishes raised significant health concerns. These items were immediately discarded by inspectors.
- Poor Kitchen Hygiene: Cobwebs, clutter, and improperly labeled food storage reflected a lack of sanitation.
- Staff Hygiene Neglected: Food handlers were observed without basic protective gear like hair caps and gloves.
The restaurant also failed to maintain pest control records and medical certificates, further contributing to the problem of hygiene violations in Hyderabad restaurants.
Public Health Concerns and Government Action
The GHMC raids underscore growing concerns about food safety in Hyderabad’s restaurants. Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi has called for strict adherence to hygiene standards, warning that businesses violating these norms could face severe penalties or closure.
The findings from these raids bring into sharp focus the urgent need for improved regulation and awareness about hygiene violations in Hyderabad restaurants. Public health is at risk if such practices continue unchecked, urging both authorities and restaurateurs to act swiftly.
Conclusion
The GHMC’s proactive inspections at Lakdikapul restaurants reveal a troubling disregard for food safety standards. From rodent infestations to the use of synthetic food colors, these violations highlight the importance of enforcing stringent hygiene protocols. Customers deserve safe and clean dining environments, making it imperative for authorities and business owners to prioritize food safety.
Disclaimer:
The information presented here is based on official inspections conducted by the GHMC. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not aim to defame any individual or establishment. Readers are advised to verify updates from official sources for the latest information.