Hyderabad Hospital Kitchen Inspections Highlight Food Safety Concerns
The GHMC Food Safety team inspected 73 hospital kitchens in Hyderabad on Monday. They uncovered numerous hygiene issues and collected 14 food samples for analysis.
The head of GHMC ordered these unannounced inspections to ensure hospital kitchens maintain cleanliness and safety for patients.
Issues Discovered
Inspectors identified several problems, including:
- Lack of separate storage for raw food
- Filthy exhaust fans and chimneys
- Unclean or damaged dishwashing areas
- Uncovered or unlabeled food in fridges
- Food stored directly on the floor
- Open trash bins near food preparation areas
- Food mixed with non-food items
- Absence of water quality and pest control documentation
Dr. Sivaleela highlighted that these issues reflect poor food management, which is unacceptable in hospitals.
Food Sample Testing
The team sent 14 samples to the State Lab for testing. Depending on the results, hospitals will receive notices to rectify issues. Severe violations may result in fines or revocation of food licenses.
Expert Concerns
Healthcare experts are concerned. Dr. Shantanu emphasized that patients have weakened immune systems, and contaminated food could worsen their health.
Food safety specialist Ankita stressed that hospital kitchens should be as sanitary as operating rooms.
Urgent GHMC Directives
GHMC urged hospitals to promptly address the issues and submit compliance reports. Follow-up inspections are planned.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve food safety across Hyderabad.
Residents can report unsanitary hospital kitchens by calling 040-21111111 or using the MyGHMC app.
