Plastering flakes to no analysis report: Safety inspections on dairy units expose gaps in Karmanghat, Uppal

Hyderabad: Food safety inspections conducted by the Task Force team in dairy manufacturing units in Karmanghat and Uppal have exposed several compliance gaps and adherence issues.

The inspections were aimed to ensure that the dairy units meet the required food safety standards.

Here are highlights of the inspections

Saptagiri Foods, Karmanghat

During the inspection of Saptagiri Foods, the Task Force team observed several key points:

- License Display: The FSSAI license true copy was displayed on the office premises.

- Protective Gear: Headgear, gloves, and uniforms were available for the food handlers.

- Missing Certificates and Records: Medical Fitness Certificates for food handlers and pest control records were not available.

- Pest Control Issues: The premises did not have insect-proof screens. Doors were not having close-fitted screens to prevent pest entry.

- Lack of Analysis Reports: Analysis reports for the food products manufactured were not available, and there was no internal laboratory.

- Transport Vehicle License: The vehicle meant for the transportation of dairy products did not have an FSSAI license/registration.

- Milk Testing: On-the-spot milk testing conducted with the help of the Food Safety on Wheels vehicle found the sample parameters to be within prescribed limits.

Creamline Dairy Products Limited (Jersey), Uppal

Inspection findings at Creamline Dairy Products Limited included the following:

- License Display: The FSSAI license true copy was displayed at the entrance of the premises.

- Structural Issues: Loose plastering flakes were found on the ceiling, tiles were broken on side walls in the pasteurization area, and possible water seepage was observed in the ice cream manufacturing unit.

- Scope of License: The FBO was found repacking cooking butter procured from the Jersey unit in Ongole without including it in the scope of the license.

- Improper Storage: Raw food articles like Soluble Essence and Candied Karonda were not stored at the temperatures mentioned on their labels.

- Worker Safety Gear: Workers in the food section were wearing hair caps, gloves, masks, and uniforms.

- Supervisory Staff: Seven FoSTaC-trained supervisors were available at the premises.

- Pest Control Measures: The manufacturing premises hid insect-proof screens, although minor damage was noted.

- Documentation: Pest control records, Medical Fitness Certificates of food handlers, and analysis reports for the food products being manufactured were available.

- Transport Vehicle License: The vehicles used for transporting dairy products had the required FSSAI licenses.

Further action

The inspections highlighted the need for stricter adherence to food safety regulations in both dairy units. While some compliance was noted, significant gaps in safety protocols were also observed. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards to ensure the safety and quality of dairy products.

Further actions and follow-ups are expected to ensure that these units address the non-compliance issues promptly and uphold food safety standards.