Several expired food items and unhygienic conditions were found at several paying guest (PG) accommodations in Bengaluru during a special food safety inspection drive on Friday, officials said, adding that notices were issued to 23 PGs following the inspections.
The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) department inspected a total of 64 PG accommodations across Bengaluru city, Bengaluru Rural and areas under the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
The drive was conducted following complaints from the public about poor-quality food and unhygienic conditions at PGs, officials said, as reported by news agency PTI.
Expired Food Items Seized
During the inspections, officials checked food preparation and storage methods, shelf life, kitchen hygiene, quality of food items, storage of raw
materials and product labelling.
The department said expired curd, Swastik Bisibele Bath powder, rice flour, synthetic food colour, black pepper and a misbranded mixture were found in use at some PGs. These food articles were seized as per law.
Officials also collected 12 food samples and sent them to laboratories for analysis. The test results will help determine whether further action is required.
Bed Bug Powder Found With Food, Dining Area Sealed
One of the serious violations was reported at Nandana Elite PG in Bommasandra.
According to FSDA Commissioner Srinivas K, bed bug powder was found kept on a dining table along with food articles.
Officials also found unused and non-food-related materials stored in an area where drinking water facilities were provided. The premises were found to be unhygienic.
“During the inspection of Nandana Elite PG, Bommasandra, Bed bugs powder was found kept on the dining table along with food articles. Further, unused/non-food-related materials were found stored in an area where drinking water facilities were provided, along with overall unhygienic conditions. In view of these violations, the dining area was sealed,” the Commissioner said.
PG Owners Warned Over Food Safety
The department has directed PG owners and food handlers to strictly follow food safety and hygiene regulations.
They have been instructed to safely store food, use quality raw materials, maintain proper hygiene in kitchens and food preparation areas, and ensure that expired food is not used or distributed.
The department warned that violations of food safety regulations will invite legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the rules and regulations framed under it.
Vidhana Soudha Kitchen Also Inspected
Meanwhile, the department inspected the pantry of the Cabinet Hall at Vidhana Soudha during the Cabinet meeting on September 3.
The inspection covered cleanliness, food storage, food quality and inventory management. Officials checked floors, shelves, corners and appliances, besides sinks and drainage systems.
The department said food items were properly labelled with manufacturing and expiry dates and the premises were checked for signs of pests and rodents.
The Cabinet Hall kitchen was found to be well maintained, officials said.
(With inputs from agencies)
