Food safety alarm: Telangana authorities detect rodent infestations in spices
During the inspections, 15 kg of black pepper and 18 kg of bay leaves contaminated with rat faeces
By - Newsmeter Network
Hyderabad: Telangana food safety authorities have seized contaminated stocks and initiated action against the erring spice units for violating safety norms.
The move comes as part of the state’s ongoing #SpicesDrive to ensure safe and hygienic spice production across Telangana.
Widespread inspections across districts
Over 30 spice manufacturing and repacking units across all districts were inspected, with more than 40 samples of chilli, turmeric, black pepper, coriander, curry leaf powder, and bay leaves lifted for testing. The inspections aimed to monitor compliance with hygiene and labeling standards.
Serious violations detected
Authorities found serious lapses at M/s Srivari Spices & Foods Ltd, Jalpally (Rangareddy District), and M/s Divine Spices, Kapila Nagar Colony, Bandlaguda Jagir, Hyderabad.
The violations included: Pest and rodent infestations, poor hygiene practices, absence of FoSTaC-trained supervisors, unlabelled or expired products, and lack of medical fitness records for staff.
Contaminated stocks confiscated
During the inspections, 15 kg of black pepper and 18 kg of bay leaves contaminated with rat faeces were seized and sent for laboratory analysis. Additionally, unlabelled curry leaf powder was confiscated for violating the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
Enforcement action initiated
Multiple improvement notices have been issued, and enforcement measures are ongoing to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Authorities stressed that such drives are crucial for protecting consumers and promoting hygienic spice production across Telangana.
