Unlabeled paneer packets discarded at Sodexo India Services unit in Hitec, Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The Telangana State Commissioner of Food Safety's Task Force team conducted an inspection of the Sodexo India Services Pvt Ltd Central Production unit in the Hitec, Kondapur area on April 2, 2025.
During the inspection, food safety officers found several hygiene issues. The kitchen and grinding area had patchy flooring in some sections, with wet floors and food waste scattered in the grinding area. Additionally, 16 kg of paneer packets, which lacked visible packing dates, were discarded.
Other violations included inadequate space between the wall and storage racks, preventing proper cleaning. Blood from packed raw meat was found dripping in the chiller room, and food articles were stored in plastic trays directly on the cold storage floor.
The kitchen drains showed accumulated food waste, and some food articles were kept uncovered below knee height. A housefly infestation was also observed at the raw material reception area.
In response to the inspection, Sodexo India Services issued a statement highlighting its commitment to food safety and hygiene standards. The company acknowledged the findings and described them as an opportunity for improvement. “We remain dedicated to consumer safety, with close attention to every step of the food handling process,” the statement said.
The company also noted that it had received a 93% compliance score in a recent FSSAI safety audit, highlighting its ongoing efforts to maintain food safety best practices. "We will proactively address the areas identified for enhancement," the statement added.
Earlier, on February 17, 2025, food safety officers conducted similar inspections at several government hospitals across the state, focusing on hygiene practices in hospital kitchens and canteens.
Officers provided guidance to cooks and food handlers on food safety, including raw material selection, storage, and preparation practices. Samples were collected for laboratory analysis, and notices were issued for major violations.
Hospital superintendents were advised to take necessary follow-up actions, and Food Business Operators (FBOs) were encouraged to enroll staff in FoSTaC training.
Consumers are encouraged to report any food safety concerns via the FoSCoS App. For more information and to download the app, visit the following links: Android- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.foscos&hl=en&gl=US and iOS -https://apps.apple.com/in/app/food-safety-compliance-system-foscos/id1481748596.
