Hyderabad Food Raids: 6 Units Shut for Expired Items, Rat Infestation

The Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), in coordination with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Food Safety Officers, conducted raids on six food establishments in Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts on Friday. The operation was part of a special drive targeting food safety violations.

The raided units included a repacking unit, an ice-cream manufacturing unit, two murukulu (a savoury snack) manufacturing units, a bakery, and a retail store. Specifically, the establishments inspected were KOP Apro Tech Ltd. in Bahadurpura, Snazzy Ice Cream in Kishan Bagh, Veerabhadra Enterprises and Twin Cities Enterprises in Mylargadda, SS Bakery in Malkajguda, and M.M. Kirana and Dry Fruits Stores in Begum Bazar.

Officials reported multiple violations, including food preparation and storage in unhygienic conditions, use of reused cooking oil and artificial food colours, sale of expired and misbranded products, and improper labelling. The teams also observed poor sanitation, pest infestations (including cockroaches and pigeons), improper food storage, and absence or non-display of valid FSSAI licences. Several food handlers were found not wearing hairnets, gloves, or other protective gear.

Seized items included reused cooking oil, artificial food colours, and other unsafe food articles. Food samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Six persons were apprehended and handed over to respective Food Safety Officers for action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

H-FAST advised consumers to purchase food products only from licensed and hygienic establishments, and to check FSSAI licences, manufacturing and expiry dates, and product labels before purchasing. Citizens can report food adulteration or unhygienic food preparation to H-FAST at 8712661212.