27 sweet shops in Hyderabad checked for food safety; officials find dirty ovens, fly infestations
Fly infestations, dirty ovens were found in Hyderabad by food safety officers as they plan to check more sweet shops in GHMC areas
By - Newsmeter Network
Hyderabad: With Diwali around the corner, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has intensified checks on sweet shops across the city to ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
As many as 27 sweet shops were inspected and more inspections have been planned
Quality, cleanliness and labelling in focus
Acting on the instructions of the Commissioner, GHMC’s Food Safety Wing has launched a special drive focusing on sweet shops to monitor quality, cleanliness and labelling practices during the festive season.
According to an official press release, the inspections were carried out by Food Safety Officers across various GHMC circles.
“The Food Safety Officers are conducting surprise inspections in their respective areas. About 27 sweet shops were inspected and the drive will be continued,” said P Murthy Raju, Assistant Food Controller, GHMC.
Violations detected
The inspections revealed several violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Rules and Regulations, 2011.
Notices have been issued to the concerned establishments for the rectification of defects. GHMC stated that in cases of major violations, adjudication proceedings will be initiated before the respective Adjudication Officers.
Common violations observed during the inspections include:
• Absence of regular pest control operations.
• Use of untested water for food preparation.
• Broken flooring in the tiffin section.
• Lack of medical records for workers.
• Flies infestation in display areas.
• Ovens found dirty and unhygienic.
• Food handlers without hairnets and gloves.
• Open dustbins placed in display areas.
GHMC’s advisory to shop owners
Officials have directed food business operators to maintain strict hygiene standards both in the preparation and sale of sweets.
“Proper labelling of food items displayed for sale, including the date of preparation and shelf life, must be ensured,” the GHMC statement added.
The civic body has advised all sweet shop owners to keep their premises clean, ensure that food handlers follow safety practices and test the quality of water used in preparation.
