Food safety officials have issued a warning to a McDonald’s outlet in Jaipur after an inspection found problems in the kitchen. The outlet was checked on February 9 in Rajasthan’s capital city.
During the
visit, officers found cooking oil that had been reused several times and was not fit for consumption. They also found rotten tomatoes kept in storage. Samples of the oil were taken for further testing.
Oil And Tomatoes Found During Inspection
Government food safety officer Sushil Chotwani said 40 litres of oil had been repeatedly used for cooking, as per Reuters. This was against food safety rules. Because of this, officials collected oil samples and sent them for testing.
The outlet has been given 14 days to correct its practices. If it fails to do so, stricter action may follow. Officials also said more McDonald’s outlets in Jaipur will be inspected.
McDonald’s franchise for North and East India, Connaught Plaza Restaurants, said it is reportedly cooperating with authorities and follows “rigorous McDonald’s global standards.” The company’s US spokesperson did not respond to queries outside business hours.
Food safety issues are often reported in India, but cases involving major brands are not common. McDonald’s is one of the country’s most popular fast-food chains, with hundreds of outlets.
What Food Safety Standards Mean
Food safety standards are rules made by governments and global bodies to make sure food is safe to eat. These rules cover how food is stored, cooked, packed and served.
In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sets these rules. There are also global guidelines from organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO). These standards aim to reduce the risk of contamination and prevent food-related illnesses.
Restaurants must make sure ingredients are fresh, storage is clean, and cooking practices are safe. Reusing oil beyond limits or keeping spoiled food breaks these rules.
Which Cooking Oils Are Better For Health
Some cooking oils are considered better because they contain healthier fats and less saturated fat.
According to the American Heart Association, common healthier options include: Canola oil, Corn oil, Olive oil, Peanut oil, Safflower oil, Soybean oil, Sunflower oil, and Vegetable oil.
Blended vegetable oils and cooking sprays made from these oils are also good choices. Other oils like avocado, grapeseed, rice bran and sesame oil can also be healthy but may cost more.
Is It Safe To Reuse Fried Oil?
Many people reuse oil at home after frying snacks like puris or pakoras. However, reheating oil again and again can be harmful.
Studies show that reheating oil can release toxic substances and increase free radicals in the body. This may lead to inflammation and long-term health problems. FSSAI guidelines say reheating should be avoided. If oil must be reused, it should not be used more than three times to prevent the formation of trans fats.
Repeated heating can also reduce healthy fats and increase harmful ones. If oil smells bad, becomes very dark, or starts smoking quickly, it should be thrown away.
What Fast-Food Lovers Should Keep In Mind
People who enjoy fast food can make better choices by being careful about what they order.
Look for food made fresh, such as salads, soups or smoothies. Adding greens can improve the meal’s nutrition. Choosing vegetarian or vegan options may reduce saturated fat intake.
It is better to avoid fried foods, as commercial kitchens often heat oil at very high temperatures, which can create trans fats. Instead of fries, one can pick baked options or a side salad.
Healthier Swaps For Junk Food
Small changes can make a big difference. Some simple alternatives include:
– Kale chips instead of potato chips
– Baked veggie fries instead of French fries
– Yogurt fruit pops instead of ice cream
– Black bean brownies instead of cakes
– Homemade smoothies instead of milkshakes
– Chocolate-dipped nuts instead of candy
– Fruity sparkling water instead of soda.
