Hyderabad KFC outlet flagged for poor oil quality during food safety check

A food safety inspection has found violations related to cooking oil quality at a KFC outlet in Hyderabad’s Kondapur area. The inspection, by officials from the Serilingampally zone, was carried out at the Rajarajeshwari Colony outlet.

Sharing details on X, the Zonal Commissioner said, “Conducted a random food safety inspection at KFC, Rajarajeshwari Colony, Kondapur along with the FSO team. TPC (Total Polar Compounds) levels in cooking oil were found to be above permissible limits with dark discoloration.

Action is being initiated under relevant rules.”

Conducted a random food safety inspection at KFC, Rajarajeshwari Colony, Kondapur along with the FSO team.

TPC (Total Polar Compounds) levels in cooking oil were found to be above permissible limits with dark discoloration. Action is being initiated under relevant rules. pic.twitter.com/rXcUjgLkai

— Zonal Commissioner, Serilingampally Zone - CMC (@ZC_SLP) May 4, 2026

According to officials, the key issue flagged during the inspection was the quality of cooking oil being used at the outlet. Tests showed that the total polar compounds (TPC) levels had crossed the permissible limit. TPC is a standard measure used to check how much cooking oil has degraded over time.

Inspectors also noted that the oil had turned dark in colour. This usually indicates that the oil has been used repeatedly beyond safe limits. Food safety guidelines clearly state that cooking oil should not be reused once it crosses a certain degradation level, as it may become unsafe for consumption.

Officials said action is now being initiated against the outlet under relevant food safety regulations. The exact nature of the penalty or action has not been specified yet.

Authorities also explained that high TPC levels can pose health risks. When cooking oil is used repeatedly, it breaks down and can form harmful compounds. Regular consumption of food prepared in such oil may have adverse health effects.

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The inspection is part of a wider drive across Hyderabad, where food safety teams have been carrying out checks at restaurants, cloud kitchens and other food outlets. In recent months, several establishments, including well-known chains, have been flagged for violations.

Common issues found during these inspections include reuse of cooking oil, poor hygiene practices, expired ingredients and improper storage of food items. In many cases, officials have issued notices and imposed penalties. These checks are being conducted under guidelines set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

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