The Food Safety and Drug Administration department conducted a special inspection across Bengaluru, resulting in notices being served to 23 paying guest accommodations. This initiative aimed at enhancing food safety and hygiene standards followed an increase in complaints regarding substandard food and poor sanitary conditions in these facilities. The inspection took place on Friday, with officials reporting that a total of 64 PGs were audited during the drive, which was undertaken on the instruction of Health and Family Welfare Minister U T Khader.

During the inspections, officials seized multiple expired food items from the establishments. Among these were curd, bisibele bath powder, rice flour, synthetic food colour, black pepper, and a misbranded mixture. These items were removed from the shelves in accordance with legal protocols to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Food Safety and Drug Administration Commissioner Srinivas K announced that, in addition to the notices, 12 food samples were collected for laboratory analysis. These samples will be tested for quality and adherence to safety standards as outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, as well as the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011. The findings from these analyses are anticipated to inform further actions regarding the establishments concerned.

Specific Violations Noted at Nandana Elite PG

Significant hygiene violations were reported at Nandana Elite PG in Bommasandra, where inspectors discovered bed bug powder stored alongside food items on the dining table. Additionally, non-food materials were found in areas designated for drinking water services, highlighting overall unhygienic conditions. Following these findings, the department made the decision to seal the dining area to prevent any further violations.

The department’s directive emphasises that all PG owners and food handlers must adhere strictly to established food safety and hygiene regulations. It has been mandated that food items be stored correctly and that only high-quality raw materials be used in meal preparation. Furthermore, it is critical that expired food items are neither used nor distributed under any circumstances.

Legal action may be pursued against any individual or establishment that fails to comply with food safety regulations as stipulated in the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The department has made it clear that maintaining food quality is of paramount importance to safeguard public health.

Inspection at Vidhana Soudha Highlights Compliance Efforts

In a separate initiative, the Food Safety and Drug Administration also evaluated the pantry of the cabinet hall at Vidhana Soudha during a Cabinet meeting on September 3. The focus of these inspections included cleanliness, safe food storage practices, food quality, and effective inventory management. The teams ensured that all surfaces, including floors, shelves, and appliances, were clean and devoid of any dust or contaminants.

During this inspection, officials verified that all items were clearly labelled with both manufacturing and expiry dates. They also looked for any signs of pests, including rodents or droppings, ensuring that the food storage area met necessary safety standards. The thoroughness of these checks underscores the commitment to maintaining hygiene and safety in government facilities.

Both inspection initiatives reflect an ongoing effort to enforce food safety regulations and ensure that establishments are held accountable for their practices. The Food Safety and Drug Administration continues to advocate for higher standards across all sectors to protect public health effectively.

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