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Install CCTV in Kitchens GHMC Advisory
GHMC Issues Advisory for Kitchen Hygiene in Eateries
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has issued a detailed advisory to all eateries under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license category, particularly those with seating capacities of 50 persons and above. This advisory emphasizes maintaining strict hygiene standards in kitchens and storage areas. Additionally, the advisory asks eateries to install CCTV cameras for kitchen hygiene monitoring to ensure adherence to food safety protocols.
This move aims to boost food safety across Hyderabad by making kitchen operations more transparent and accountable, benefiting both customers and businesses.
Mandatory Installation of CCTV Cameras in Kitchens
One of the key requirements in GHMC’s advisory is the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras for kitchen hygiene monitoring. These cameras are to be strategically placed to cover all areas of food preparation. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that the eateries maintain proper hygiene at all times. By keeping a close watch on kitchen activities, authorities can easily monitor hygiene practices in real time.
Installing CCTV cameras in kitchens is expected to serve as a deterrent to food handlers who might otherwise overlook proper sanitary measures. It also enhances customer trust, as many patrons prefer dining in places where food safety protocols are strictly followed.
Compliance with FSSAI Hygiene Standards
In addition to CCTV cameras for kitchen hygiene, GHMC has advised all eateries to strictly follow FSSAI standards. These standards encompass a wide range of hygiene practices, including the training of food handlers, maintenance of proper kitchen sanitation, and compliance with storage guidelines.
GHMC’s advisory has emphasized that the design of food premises should provide adequate working space for food handlers, ensuring the kitchen is easy to clean and maintain. Walls, ceilings, and doors in the kitchen should be free from flaking paint or plaster, and should not accumulate condensation or shed particles that could contaminate food. Flooring must be non-absorbent, non-slippery, and adequately sloped to avoid water stagnation.
Hygienic Kitchen Design Requirements
According to GHMC guidelines, the design of the food premises must be carefully planned to promote cleanliness and safety. The internal structure and fittings of the kitchen should be made of non-toxic and impermeable materials, which are easy to clean. This prevents harmful substances from contaminating food during preparation.
Floors should be designed to prevent any risk of slipping, and they must not absorb liquids, which could lead to bacterial growth. They should also be sloped appropriately to allow water to drain away efficiently. Additionally, the internal surfaces, including walls and ceilings, must be kept in a condition that minimizes the risk of flaking or particle shedding.
Training of Food Handlers
Another crucial component of the advisory is the training of food handlers in proper hygiene practices. GHMC recommends that all restaurant staff involved in food preparation receive training on food safety, sanitation protocols, and personal hygiene. This ensures that the individuals handling food are aware of the importance of preventing contamination and maintaining cleanliness at all stages of food preparation.
Proper Storage and Documentation
GHMC also emphasizes the importance of proper storage practices for raw materials, ingredients, and prepared food items. The advisory requires eateries to follow specific storage guidelines, ensuring food is stored at the appropriate temperatures and in designated areas to prevent cross-contamination.
The maintenance of proper documentation is also necessary for tracking food safety practices. This includes records of cleaning schedules, temperature checks, and the training of food handlers. Proper documentation can help authorities during inspections to verify that all safety measures are being followed.
Ensuring Customer Safety Through Hygiene
By adhering to the guidelines laid out by GHMC, eateries can provide their customers with the assurance that the food being served is prepared in a clean and safe environment. The focus on CCTV cameras for kitchen hygiene is part of a larger effort to maintain high standards of food safety in the city.
The installation of CCTV cameras in kitchens not only serves as a surveillance tool but also plays a critical role in instilling discipline among food handlers, ensuring that they follow hygiene protocols even when they are not being supervised.
Conclusion
The GHMC advisory is a proactive measure aimed at enhancing food safety and maintaining high hygiene standards in eateries across Hyderabad. With mandatory CCTV cameras for kitchen hygiene, compliance with FSSAI standards, and proper food handler training, restaurants and food outlets can now ensure a safer dining experience for their patrons.
These steps are crucial for safeguarding public health, especially in larger establishments with high foot traffic. Eateries that follow these guidelines can enhance their reputation while contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only, based on publicly available guidelines from GHMC. Readers should refer to official documents for detailed and up-to-date information. All health and safety regulations must be verified directly with local authorities.
