Hyderabad: FSTF detects violations at Sodexo India Services, Central Production Unit; 16 kg paneer discarded

Hyderabad: Food Safety Task Force (FSTF) has detected multiple violations at Sodexo India Services and Central Production Unit, Hitec, Kondapur.

During the inspection, officials found that the kitchen and grinding area had patchy flooring, with wet floors and littered food waste in the grinding area. The inspection team directed the establishment to discard 16 kg of paneer packets as the packing dates were not visible.

Other observations included improper storage practices, such as food articles being kept in plastic trays on the floor in cold storage and a lack of proper gaps between the wall and storage racks, hindering effective cleaning.

Additionally, officials found blood from packed raw meat dripping in the chiller room, food waste accumulating in kitchen drains, and some food items being stored uncovered below knee height. Housefly infestation was also noted in the raw material reception area.

Sodexo India Responds to Food Safety Inspection

Following the recent food safety inspection conducted by the Telangana task force at its Central Production Unit in Kondapur, Sodexo India issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to upholding the highest standards of food safety, health, and hygiene.

“The recent Food Safety Inspection provided valuable insights, and we view this feedback as an opportunity to further collaborate with industry experts and enhance our already stringent Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) benchmarks,” the statement read.

Sodexo noted that its facility received a 93% compliance score based on the FSSAI safety audit checklist, describing it as “a testament to our commitment to excellence.” The company added that it remains dedicated to continuous improvement and will proactively address the areas identified for enhancement, emphasizing that consumer safety remains its top priority.

Expired Products, Unhygienic Conditions Found at Aman Mithaiwala Pvt. Ltd.

The food safety team also inspected Aman Mithaiwala Pvt. Ltd., IDA Mallapur, where serious violations were observed.

Officials noted that the establishment’s license was registered under an incorrect jurisdiction. The kitchen floor was found unhygienic and sticky, with a foul smell present. Food handlers were seen working without hair nets, gloves, or aprons.

Key records, including pest control records, water analysis reports, medical fitness certificates of food handlers, and training records for FoSTaC-certified workers, were not available. Tobacco stains were observed on the walls, and the store room was found to be in an unhygienic condition.

The inspection also uncovered 300 kg of expired products at the premises. Officials determined that the sweets produced at the establishment were unfit for human consumption due to excessive use of food color and fungal infestation.

Authorities Stress Importance of Compliance

The authorities have instructed both establishments to address the violations immediately.

Further action, including penalties or possible closure, may be considered if compliance is not ensured.