Guidelines must be followed for shawarma preparation and sale, strict action will be taken otherwise, inspections will continue: Health minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister Veena George has informed that the Food safety department will strictly continue the inspections to find out whether shawarma selling shops in the state are following the guidelines. 942 inspections were conducted in the months of October and November. Notices were issued to 284 shops to raise the standards. 168 shops that did not follow the government directive were issued notices to pay fines and Rs 3.43 lakh were collected as fines. The shops selling shawarma should strictly follow the government instruction otherwise strict action will be taken. The minister clarified that the inspections will continue vigorously in the coming days.

The food safety department in the state had issued guidelines for preparation and sale of shawarma. Shawarma should not be cooked or sold in unsanitary conditions. Detailed guidelines on cooking area, equipment used, personal hygiene and preparation of shawarma have been issued. As per FSS act, no person shall commence or carry on any food business without a license or registration. Strict action will be taken against those who violate the law.