Hyderabad: Many sweet shops in the city are not following food safety and hygiene rules. On Wednesday, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation‘s food safety officers inspected these shops.
They checked 60 sweet shops in one day under the guidance of GHMC commissioner RV Karnan. The officers continue to conduct surprise visits in their areas. Each officer must inspect at least five shops in their circle. They found common issues like missing “use by” dates on sweets, dirty utensils, poor lighting, and open trash bins.
Shops lacked insect-proof windows, and exhausts were greasy. Floors were dirty and had food waste. Houseflies were present, and walls and ceilings were greasy and peeling. The washing area was dirty, with stagnant water, and kitchen drainage was faulty.
Food handlers touched food with bare hands, and employees did not wear hairnets. Shops lacked pest control records, employee health records, and water analysis reports.
When violations of the Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006 and Rules & Regulations, 2011 were found, officers issued notices for correction. Serious violations will face adjudication.
Officers instructed sweet shop owners to maintain hygiene, clean kitchens, and label food items properly. They warned that failing to comply could lead to legal action and potential shop closures.
