Lightning inspection: Food Safety Dept issues notice to 17 establishments; will take strong action, says Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With tourists pouring into tourist centres during the holiday season, the Food Safety Department has intensified lightning inspections at restaurants and food outlets in tourist areas to ensure safe food for tourists. In the first phase, lightning raids were conducted in resorts and food outlets in regions like Munnar, Chinnakanal and Mankulam under the leadership of the Special Task Force of the Food Safety Department.

Inspections were carried out in 102 establishments under the leadership of three squads. Notices were issued to 17 establishments in which violations were found. Officials said that they will re-inspect these establishments within a week. Strict legal action will be taken in case of repeated law violations.

Health Minister Veena George said that food safety inspections will continue to ensure safe food for the people. Apart from Munnar, the inspections will also be carried out in tourist areas such as Wayanad, Vagamon and Athirappilly in the coming days. Food distributors should only operate with a food safety license. The minister also requested the establishments to follow food safety norms.