Hyderabad: FSTF finds food safety standard violations at Bejawada Bhojanam, Arambham

Hyderabad: Telangana Commissioner of Food Safety Task Force (FSTF) raided popular restaurants in Hyderabad on December 11.

During raids, the authorities found glaring violations of food safety standards at these facilities.

The inspections targeted Bejawada Bhojanam in Jubilee Hills and Arambham (Millet Express Food Pvt Ltd) in Madhapur.

Violations at Bejawada Bhojanam

During the inspection, Bejawada Bhojanam was found not complying with basic food safety regulations:

• The mandatory FSSAI license was not displayed prominently.

• Critical documents, such as water analysis reports and medical fitness records for food handlers, were unavailable.

• The kitchen revealed several hygiene lapses, including the use of rusty knives and unhygienic refrigerators.

• Spoiled ingredients, such as sprouted potatoes and expired toned milk, were discarded on-site.

• Prepared food lacked proper labeling, and vegetarian and non-vegetarian items were stored together, violating safety protocols.

• No FoSTaC-trained supervisor was available, and the restaurant failed to adhere to FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory practices.

Issues at Arambham

Arambham (Millet Express Food Pvt Ltd) in Madhapur was also found to be non-compliant with safety norms:

• The FSSAI license was not displayed prominently.

• Refrigerators were poorly maintained, containing waste and expired items such as besan. Food articles worth ₹21,893 were seized for violating labeling regulations.

• The kitchen was overly congested, hindering cleaning activities.

• Food trays were stored directly on the ground, and food articles were improperly labeled or mixed with non-food items, increasing contamination risks.

• FIFO practices were not followed, with storage areas appearing disorganized.

Official Statement

Next Steps

Authorities have directed the restaurant management to rectify the identified lapses immediately. Failure to comply may result in penalties or further action as per the Food Safety and Standards Act.

Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and report any concerns regarding food safety standards at eateries.