Telangana food safety officers inspect Government Hospital canteens across state

Hyderabad: On February 17, 2025, officers from the Telangana State Commissioner of Food Safety conducted inspections across several government hospitals, including Government General Hospitals, Area Hospitals, and Community Health Centers (CHCs) in the state. The inspections focused on the hygiene practices at hospital kitchens and canteens.

During the visits, food safety officers provided guidance to cooks and food handlers on proper hygiene, the selection of raw materials, the storage of food, and necessary precautions during food preparation.

Samples from these kitchens were collected for laboratory analysis, and notices were issued in response to major violations.

Inspection reports have been shared with the respective hospital superintendents for follow-up actions. Food Business Operators (FBOs) were also urged to enroll cooks and food handlers in FoSTaC training.

Earlier, on January 24, 2025, the Telangana State Commissioner of Food Safety’s Task Force conducted a surprise inspection at the Central Kitchen of Sri Chaitanya Educational Institutes in Khanamet, Madhapur, operated by the Sri Vasista Educational Trust.

The inspection revealed several violations, including the absence of water analysis reports, pest control records, and FoSTaC certificates for staff. The kitchen was found to be unsanitary, with improperly cleaned refrigerators and wet areas on the floor.

Food waste was scattered around, and several drains were broken or lacked meshes to prevent insect entry. The walls were damaged, and grease had built up in various areas.

The exhaust system was dirty, dustbins were left open, and doors did not seal properly, making it easy for pests to enter.

Other issues included unlabeled packed Nut Meg, improperly stored food, and expired items. A batch of Kaju Nuka (125 kg) that expired on January 17, 2025, was seized.

Live cockroaches and rodent feces were found in the storage area, and food handlers were not wearing protective gear, such as aprons and gloves. Additionally, the kitchen’s 12 transport vehicles were not covered by an FSSAI license, and there was no separate vehicle license.

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.