KOCHI: In a rigorous two-day enforcement operation, the Food Safety Department of Ernakulam district has taken significant action against non-compliant food establishments. The operation, conducted across 14 assembly constituencies, led to the closure of six food outlets and the imposition of fines on 68 others.
The special drive, named Operation Life, was executed last Wednesday and Thursday under the direction of Health Minister Veena George. Its primary objective was to ensure adherence to food safety regulations and to address violations by issuing warnings and taking corrective measures against errant establishments.
Adharsh, the nodal officer for the department in Ernakulam, reported that 387 food outlets were inspected by 14 dedicated squads during the operation. Of these, 68 outlets faced fines for various infractions, while six establishments were shut down. Additionally, rectification notices were issued to 93 outlets for deficiencies in cleanliness and hygiene.
The crackdown resulted in fines totaling Rs 1.8 lakh. Inspectors discovered a range of violations, including the use of expired food items, unlabelled spices, improperly stored chicken, and 236 packets of expired milk. Also seized were stale food items such as al-faham, fresh cream, chutney, and grapes, which could potentially cause food poisoning. A total of 39 surveillance samples have been sent for further testing.
In light of these findings, Health Minister Veena George has emphasized the need for all food service employees to obtain health cards. “Workers in hotels and other food-related establishments must secure health cards within four weeks,” George stated on Facebook. She warned that stringent measures will be enforced against those who fail to comply.
Adharsh noted that routine inspections have intensified in response to recent food poisoning incidents, particularly in Kakkanad and Thrikkakara, areas with a high concentration of food outlets. The drive follows the death of a youth in Mavelipuram last October, which has heightened vigilance and led to a decrease in reported food poisoning cases.
The Health Minister’s mandate for health cards underscores the department’s commitment to safeguarding public health and maintaining high standards in food safety across the region.
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