Bengaluru Hotels: Rotten Veggies, Expired Milk Found in Raids

Thinking of treating yourself to a fancy meal in Bengaluru? Recent inspections might make you think twice, as the Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department just raided 26 premium hotels.

This special inspection drive targeted both 3-star and 5-star establishments across the Bengaluru Urban district. Thirty teams of Food Safety Officers were deployed to check compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related hygiene regulations.

Uncovering Unsavory Secrets

During these surprise checks, officials found a range of serious issues impacting hygiene and food quality.

• Unhygienic kitchen and storage conditions were rampant.
• Officials found expired food products, a major concern for consumer health.
• There was fungal growth on vegetables, indicating improper storage.
• Improper food handling practices were also identified.
• Many products were misbranded, failing FSSAI labelling requirements.
• Hotels also failed to maintain separate storage for vegetarian and non-vegetarian items.

These inspections led to the seizure and destruction of significant quantities of unsafe items, including milk, meat, and various vegetables. Additionally, 35 food samples — covering everything from chicken and fish to edible oil, spices, and cheese — were collected for detailed lab analysis.

Official Action and Consumer Impact

Notices have already been issued to the implicated Food Business Operators, with adjudication proceedings set to begin once laboratory reports confirm the violations. Karnataka Health Minister UT Khader stated these inspections ensure even top-tier hotels adhere to food safety norms and hygiene standards.

This drive serves as a crucial reminder for all eateries, big or small, to prioritize hygiene and safety, ultimately safeguarding what’s on your plate when you dine out. It highlights the hidden costs of lax standards for consumer trust and health in the city’s dining scene.