Unclean utensils, unhygienic flooring: Safety violations at Hyderabad Absolute Barbeque outlets

Hyderabad: The Food Safety Task Force and Food Safety Officers (FSOs) inspected 10 outlets of Absolute Barbeque across Hyderabad on Tuesday following a formal consumer complaint lodged with the Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana.

10 outlets inspected simultaneously

The inspections were carried out simultaneously at outlets in AS Rao Nagar, Kompally, Medipally, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Gachibowli, Inorbit, Miyapur, Vanasthalipuram and Secunderabad.

Officials confirmed that the complaint received at the Commissioner’s office alleged lapses in hygiene and safety standards at multiple branches of the restaurant chain.

Unclean utensils, unhygienic flooring and more

During the checks, FSOs reported finding unclean utensils, unhygienic flooring, and poorly maintained wash areas at some outlets.

A Food Safety Officer stated, “The inspection revealed sanitation issues in kitchens and wash areas in certain outlets. Such lapses are taken seriously under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.”

Officials added that similar drives in the past had flagged recurring issues in Hyderabad’s restaurant sector, including unsafe storage, poor kitchen hygiene and inadequate food handler practices.

The Food Safety Task Force emphasised that consumer complaints are a critical mechanism for initiating enforcement.

“Every complaint submitted to the Commissioner of Food Safety is examined, and when credible, it leads to surprise inspections. This is part of our mandate under the Food Safety and Standards Act,” a statement read.

Consistent monitoring required

Absolute Barbeque, known for its “do-it-yourself grill dining” concept, has expanded rapidly in Hyderabad over the past decade. With multiple high-footfall locations, officials noted that consistent monitoring is necessary to ensure food safety compliance.

Authorities reiterated that consumers can directly file complaints with the Commissioner of Food Safety if they encounter hygiene or food safety concerns. Such complaints trigger unannounced inspections and, where necessary, enforcement actions.