Rat faeces, synthetic food colours: Safety violations found in eateries in Rangareddy, Khammam

Hyderabad: On Sunday, FSSAI conducted thorough inspections of various restaurants within the Rangareddy and Khammam districts uncovering several health and safety violations.

Here are some of the major eateries where safety violations were found.

Taaza All Day Breakfast in Medchal

At Taaza All Day Breakfast in Medchal, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India inspectors found and discarded food colours stored improperly.

Vegetables including lemons were of poor quality and unfit for consumption, the inspectors said. Dalchini in the store was discarded due to its poor condition. The restaurant lacked medical records for food handlers. Unlabelled tea powder and infested foxtail millet (korralu) were discarded, and it was noted that a pest control program had not been initiated.

Train Theme Restaurant in Kompally

Inspectors at the Train Theme Restaurant in Kompally discovered infested cashew stock, cauliflower, and onions in poor condition. A blockage in the sink was also observed. Statutory samples were collected and sent to the lab for further analysis.

Prism Restaurant and Bar in Vattinagulapally

At Prism Restaurant and Bar in Vattinagulapally, expired food items were found along with rat faeces in the storeroom. Vegetables stored for an extended period in the refrigerator were found to be substandard. Inspectors also noted stagnant water and a foul smell in the kitchen area.

Special teams also conducted inspections in Khammam district on the same day, revealing additional violations.

Rest Inn

At Rest Inn in Khammam, synthetic food colours were used in food preparation. Spoiled and colour-coated tandoori chicken, marinated chicken, fried chicken, and chicken kebabs were discarded. Improperly labelled coconut powder (6.5 kg), noodles (30.5 kg), and turmeric powder (60 kg) were seized.

Food storage practices were found lacking with semi-prepared and raw food articles stored improperly in the refrigerator. Food handlers were found without haircaps, gloves, and aprons, and lacked medical fitness certificates. Pest control records and water analysis reports for RO water were also missing.

High Spirit Restaurant at Bypass Road

Inspectors at High Spirit Restaurant found synthetic food colours in use. Improperly labelled dry fruits saunf (5 kg) and coconut powder (5 kg) were seized. Substandard quality chilli was seized, and samples were sent to the lab. Expired food articles were found and discarded. Food handlers were not wearing proper haircaps, gloves, or aprons. Improper storage of both veg and non-veg food in the refrigerator was observed, with prepared and semi-prepared food left uncovered.

Haveli Westside at NTR Bypass Road

At Haveli Westside, synthetic food colours were found and destroyed. Expired rice rawa and papad were seized and discarded. Improperly labelled penne rigate, apricot, cashews, vinegar, and jeera powder were also seized. The cooking area was not maintained hygienically, with rusted machinery present. Food handlers were not using proper hairnets or aprons, and no pest control measures were in place.

Penalty

Failure to comply with food safety regulations and directives issued by a food safety officer will result in a fine of Rs 2 lakhs for any food business operator unless a reasonable justification for non-compliance is provided.