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Unhygienic Hyderabad Factories Raided Seized
Raids in Hyderabad Expose Unsanitary Factories
Unsanitary Conditions and Major Seizure In a significant operation aimed at improving food safety, officials conducted comprehensive raids in Hyderabad’s Katedan area. These inspections uncovered alarming hygiene violations in two food manufacturing units. Authorities seized a staggering 1400 kg of ginger garlic paste, raising serious concerns about food safety and the state of manufacturing standards in the city.
Raids Uncover Violations at Umani Foods International The first factory, identified as Umani Foods International, was found operating without basic compliance, such as a visible name board or address. When food safety officials arrived, they faced resistance from the operator, who tried to hinder the inspection process. This resistance further indicated that the factory might be concealing more than initially observed.
Inside, the environment was shocking. About 400 kg of pre-packaged ginger garlic paste and 50 kg of synthetic food color—likely used in the production process—were confiscated by the officials. These samples were sent for laboratory analysis to confirm the quality and detect possible adulteration.
Focus on Hygiene and Safety Lapses The factory’s condition highlighted severe lapses in hygiene and safety. Water stagnation was evident around cleaning areas, increasing the risk of contamination. Cobwebs covered the walls and ceilings, while sections of the facility remained open and vulnerable to outside contamination. Workers were not provided with necessary protective gear such as gloves, aprons, or hairnets. Moreover, crucial records like pest control documentation and water quality reports were missing, making it evident that standard food safety practices were being neglected.
Eight arrested in Hyderabad for manufacturing adulterated ginger paste. A joint raid by the Task Force and Bowenpally police uncovered unhygienic practices at ‘Sony Ginger Garlic Paste,’ with 1500 kg of garlic paste and 480 kg of damaged raw garlic seized
Another Major Seizure at a Different Facility During the same operation, officials targeted another well-known factory in Hyderabad. Here, they seized 1000 kg of ginger garlic paste amid growing concerns over quality and potential adulteration. Similar to Umani Foods International, the second facility displayed severe neglect. Signs of water stagnation and loose plastering above the grinding area posed contamination risks. Additionally, the absence of insect-proofing measures left the production space vulnerable to external pollutants.
While the police arrested 8 workers from the premises, the owner of ‘Sony Ginger Garlic Paste’, Mohammed Shakeel Ahmed is absconding. Efforts are underway to arrest him, a statement from the police said.
The inspectors found that essential documentation, including pest control and medical fitness certificates for workers, was lacking. This raised significant questions about worker health and safety in food handling practices.
Regular Inspections Essential for Public Safety These raids in Hyderabad underscore the critical need for routine inspections and stricter regulatory measures. The unhygienic conditions observed pose a clear threat to public health. The seized ginger garlic paste and the conditions in which it was produced are alarming reminders that food safety standards must be rigorously maintained.
Authorities must take action to enforce compliance with food safety regulations and prioritize frequent inspections to protect consumers. Factories must be held accountable and encouraged to adhere to basic hygiene protocols to prevent similar violations in the future.
Wake-Up Call for Manufacturers The recent raids in Hyderabad should serve as a serious warning to all food manufacturers. Maintaining cleanliness and upholding safety standards is not optional but mandatory for the wellbeing of the public. The exposure of such subpar conditions signals the need for immediate reforms and consistent monitoring to ensure that food manufacturing aligns with public health expectations.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on reported events and findings. Readers are advised to verify details with relevant authorities for accuracy and updates.
