Shocking food quality violations have come to light during inspections conducted in restaurants and hotels across Visakhapatnam. Complaints regarding non-compliance with food standards prompted surprise checks supervised by vigilance and food safety officials. Alarming discoveries included the storage of chicken, fish curry, and vegetable curries cooked two or three days prior, along with rice cooked the previous day, ready to be served. These ingredients were even being added to curry powders for enhanced taste and color.
One establishment faced a fine of Rs.10,000, while another was penalized Rs.5,000 for storing and reheating chicken fry and lollipops that were cooked several days ago. In another troubling incident, rotten chicken eggs and meat were found in a biryani point’s freezer, treated with chemicals to mask the odor. Consequently, a fine of Rs.50,000 was imposed for selling poor quality food and operating without a proper license.
Samples have been sent for forensic testing, and once the reports are received, criminal cases will be registered against the implicated establishments. Authorities have expressed their intention to conduct inspections in other hotels as well, in order to tackle the issue of substandard food being sold in the city. The public is advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant when dining out, given the potential health risks associated with such practices. These shocking revelations underscore the importance of strict adherence to food safety regulations to protect the well-being of consumers.