Insect-infested cashews, expired ingredients in sweets: Telangana food safety raids expose shocking violations

Hyderabad: Insect-infested cashews, expired ingredients and food exposed to flies are being used in the preparation and sale of confectionery and dairy products across Telangana, food safety raids have revealed, triggering serious public health concerns.

Statewide crackdown on confectionery units

In a large-scale drive conducted recently, the Food Safety Department inspected 109 confectionery manufacturing and retail establishments across the state.

A total of 190 samples were collected and sent for laboratory analysis.

Officials seized suspected unsafe products such as candies, éclairs, chocolates, mango bites, imitation chocolates and flavoured sweets from multiple districts. Around 35 kilograms of expired or unsafe items were discarded on the spot during inspections.

Authorities also issued improvement notices and show-cause notices to several units for violations of food safety norms.

Insect-infested cashews found in Hyderabad

In a surprise inspection on March 28, the Flying Squad raided a cashew repacking agency in Mallapur and found serious quality lapses.

About 36 kilograms of cashew nuts were found infested with insects and were immediately discarded. Additionally, 210 kilograms of cashew worth nearly Rs 1.5 lakh were seized on suspicion of poor quality. Samples have been sent for laboratory testing.

Unhygienic conditions at Kulfi, Falooda unit

During another inspection in Mallapur, officials uncovered alarming hygiene violations at a unit manufacturing kulfi, falooda and badam milk.

Badam milk was found being prepared in highly unhygienic conditions, with food products exposed to flies. Nearly 50 litres of contaminated products were discarded on the spot to prevent health risks. Authorities said strict action is being initiated against the Food Business Operator.

Public advised to stay alert

The Food Safety Department has urged consumers to remain cautious while purchasing and consuming food products.

Avoid loose or unbranded confectionery items.

Check for proper labelling and packaging.

Look for signs such as insects, foul smell or discolouration.

Buy only from licensed and trusted vendors.

Report unsafe food practices to authorities.

More inspections likely

Officials said such surprise raids and statewide drives will continue to curb adulteration and ensure that unsafe food products do not reach consumers.