Telangana Food Safety Officials Conduct Raid on Hotel Ashoka, Uncover Multiple Violations

Telangana Food Safety officials carried out an inspection at Hotel Ashoka in Lakdi-ka-Pul, discovering multiple violations related to hygiene and food safety standards. Authorities reported an unpleasant odor in the premises, unclean kitchen walls and floors, and a cockroach infestation.

During the inspection, officials found kitchen utensils and storage vessels covered in rust. The refrigerator contained expired food items, and synthetic food colors were used in food preparation. Rotten vegetables, including brinjal and cauliflower, were identified and immediately discarded.

Officials noted the absence of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) logo, which is mandatory for compliance. Additionally, the establishment, despite employing over 140 workers, did not have a Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) trained supervisor, a key requirement under food safety regulations.

Expired food products were found in storage, including rosemary dry herbs with an expiry date of September 2023. Packaged chicken labeled with expiry dates of January 2 and 14, along with a four-kilogram packet dated January 28, were also discovered and subsequently disposed of.

Water analysis reports, which are crucial for assessing hygiene standards, were not available at the time of the inspection. Authorities collected food samples for further laboratory testing to determine compliance with food safety norms.