Severe Hygiene Issues Found in Secunderabad and Alwal Cake Shops
The Telangana Commissioner of Food Safety’s task force conducted inspections on Friday, uncovering serious hygiene violations at multiple cake shops in Secunderabad and Alwal. These findings have raised concerns about food safety practices, prompting immediate action by authorities.
At Monginis Cake Shop, inspectors identified several alarming issues. Packaging materials were improperly stored on the floor and in stairwells, violating basic hygiene standards. Cake preparation molds were found in unsanitary conditions, and evidence of rodent activity, including rat droppings, was discovered in storage areas. The manufacturing area also showed signs of a cockroach infestation.
Additional problems included a leaking air conditioner in the cold room, which posed a contamination risk to food stored in trays. Expired products, such as pineapple and vanilla flavorings, were found on-site. Inspectors noted damaged walls and ceilings with peeling surfaces, poorly maintained refrigerators cluttered with food waste, and food stored in unclean plastic drums. Furthermore, the shop was operating seven refrigerated vehicles for transportation without proper licenses.
Another inspected establishment, Vacs Pastries, was found to be violating excise regulations. Alcohol, specifically rum, was used in the preparation of plum cakes without obtaining the necessary permissions from the Excise Department. This use of alcohol was also not disclosed on product labels, breaking transparency rules.
At Vacs Pastries, the cake preparation molds were also in unsanitary conditions. Large quantities of dry fruits and jam pulp were stored in dirty plastic drums. The operator admitted that the dry fruit mixture could be stored for up to six months but failed to provide details on preparation or best-before dates. Moreover, food and non-food items, including chemicals, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian products, were stored together, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
Other issues included uncovered and unlabeled food items in refrigerators and the absence of temperature logs to ensure proper food storage conditions. These findings have highlighted the need for stricter adherence to food safety and hygiene standards in the region.
