Rats and expired food: Hotel Tulips Grand, Varalaxmi Tiffins flagged over safety violations

Hyderabad: Hyderabad food safety officials have flagged three popular food outlets for unsanitary conditions and food safety violations following inspections conducted on Friday. The outlets—Hotel Tulips Grand in Hayathnagar, Varalaxmi Tiffins in Gachibowli and Kshatriya Foods in Madhapur—were found to have multiple lapses in hygiene and food storage practices.

Hotel Tulips Grand had expired products

At Hotel Tulips Grand, officials found unhygienic cooking and storage areas, a lack of a proper drainage system and the absence of pest control records. Additionally, expired food products, including mushrooms, ice cream, poppy seeds and meat, were being used.

Varalaxmi Tiffins found with clogged drains and rats

Varalaxmi Tiffins in Gachibowli was flagged for unsanitary kitchen conditions, unclean walls and broken flooring. Officials reported clogged drains, uncovered dustbins and an accumulation of grease on the exhaust system, which had oil dripping from it. The presence of rats outside the kitchen was also noted.

The outlet also lacked a water analysis report and medical fitness certificates for its food handlers.

Kshatriya Foods faces violations in food storage and hygiene

Kshatriya Foods in Madhapur was found to have broken tiles, stagnant water and greasy chimneys. Officials observed many houseflies in the kitchen and the use of synthetic food colours. Refrigerators were unhygienic, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian food stored together.

Food handlers were also found working without head caps and gloves, and important records were missing.

The Telangana Food Safety Department has issued notices to all three outlets, directing them to rectify the violations immediately. Follow-up inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.