The Hyderabad Food Safety and Standards Task Force (HFAST) has registered 185 cases across various zones of Hyderabad in a 100-day crackdown against food adulteration. The operation resulted in the seizure of 121.87 tonnes of adulterated, hazardous, and unsafe food items, marking a significant enforcement drive to protect public health in the city.
Among the major seizures, authorities confiscated 60 tonnes of chicken waste across six cases, 27 tonnes of adulterated ginger garlic paste in 27 cases, and 25.8 tonnes of chemically ripened fruits in 16 cases. The task force also seized 9.2 tonnes of unhygienic pickles in three cases, 4 tonnes of adulterated khova in four cases, and 3.8 tonnes of adulterated and chemical-mixed tea powder across seven cases.
The enforcement teams further seized 15 tonnes of unsafe chicken and meat products in 12 cases, 1.5 tonnes of adulterated paneer in five cases, 3.2 tonnes of adulterated cream, 530 kilograms of adulterated ghee, and 2.5 tonnes of adulterated curd. Additionally, 34 cases were registered in other categories including ice creams, biscuits, RO water plants, and junk foods.
Apart from direct police action, another 247 cases have been referred to GHMC Food Safety Officers for further action. Of these, 70 cases were registered against cheese outlets, 90 cases were based on complaints received directly from the public, and 11 cases were registered against samosa manufacturing centers. The referrals also included nine cases against water packing plants, seven against spices and bakeries, and six cases against fast food centers.
The referred cases further comprised five cases against Zepto, four cases each against hostels and meat shops, three cases against ice manufacturing centers, and three cases related to chicken waste and seafood establishments. The comprehensive enforcement action demonstrates the task force’s focus on multiple segments of the food supply chain across Hyderabad.
The Hyderabad City Police Commissioner has warned that habitual offenders could face action under the Preventive Detention Act (PD Act). The stern warning signals the administration’s commitment to taking stringent measures against those repeatedly involved in food adulteration activities that endanger public health.
Authorities have urged citizens to actively participate in ensuring food safety by reporting instances of food adulteration. The public can file complaints by calling 100 or sending a message via WhatsApp to 8712661212. The task force continues its vigilance across all zones of the city to ensure the safety and quality of food products available to consumers.
