H-FAST raids unlicensed food godown in Charminar, seizes adulterated food
Two persons were apprehended after the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), along with officials from the Food Safety Department, raided an unlicensed fast food
Two persons were apprehended after the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), along with officials from the Food Safety Department, raided an unlicensed fast food godown in the Charminar area and seized large quantities of allegedly adulterated food material on Friday, June 19. The raid was conducted at Al Akbar Fast Food and Godown located at New Laad Bazar, Panch Mohalla, under the limits of Hussaini Alam police station. During the operation, the team seized around 110 kg of prepared fried chicken, six tins of loose cooking oil containing 15 litres each, and artificial chemical food colours.
According to officials, the inspection was carried out based on specific information regarding unsafe food preparation practices. During the raid, authorities found food items being prepared and stored in unhygienic conditions that allegedly posed a risk to public health. Officials said the establishment was operating without a mandatory licence issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The inspection also revealed the alleged use of prohibited artificial food colours, identified as MSK Lion Green and Raspberry Red, reuse of stale cooking oil, absence of water quality certification and inadequate hygiene and pest-control measures.
A case has been registered at Hussaini Alam police station under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and other applicable laws. The accused and the seized material were handed over to the police for further action. Officials said the consumption of adulterated or
improperly stored food could lead to food poisoning, gastrointestinal infections, allergic reactions and other health complications. The Hyderabad City Police said it would continue taking strict action against food adulteration and urged citizens to purchase food only from licensed establishments and report unsafe food practices to the authorities.
The BriefWire