Food Safety Violations Uncovered at Shawarma Units in Secunderabad

A recent inspection by Telangana's state-level task force uncovered several food safety violations at various shawarma vending units in Secunderabad. On October 16, 2024, officials inspected five units, and the results raised serious concerns about hygiene, storage practices, and licensing.

One of the major violations was found at Shasha Shandar Shawarma, located at Paradise Metro Station. It was discovered that the outlet was operating without a valid FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license, which is mandatory for any food business in India.

Two other establishments, Mujtaba Grills in East Maredpally and Rolls on Wheels at Paradise Metro Station, also failed to comply with proper licensing rules. Although they had FSSAI licenses, they did not display them prominently, which is a legal requirement.

At Mujtaba Grills, officials found the use of synthetic food colors, which were immediately seized and discarded. Synthetic food colors are regulated in India due to potential health risks, and their use in food preparation must comply with strict safety standards.

State level task force team has conducted inspections at Shawarma vending units in Secunderabad area on 16.10.2024.

Inspections were conducted at

1. Mujtaba Grills, East Maredpally Secunderabad
2. Shasha Shandar Shawarma, Paradise Metro Station
3. Rolls on Wheels, Paradise… pic.twitter.com/0xxTDhkbZH — Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana (@cfs_telangana) October 19, 2024

In addition to licensing and food coloring issues, the task force observed a number of general hygiene lapses. Several units were found to be operating in unclean conditions. Moreover, many did not maintain necessary records, such as medical check-ups for food handlers and pest control reports, which are crucial for ensuring food safety. Another common problem was improper storage practices, especially the failure to separate vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, and improper labeling of food items.

These inspections are part of an ongoing effort by the task force to ensure food safety at various eateries across Telangana. In previous inspections, violations have also been found at restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and other food outlets. Last month, for example, inspections of paan shops in the Nacharam and Mallapur areas uncovered similar safety issues.

The authorities continue to monitor food businesses in the state to ensure they meet safety standards and protect public health.