Minister Veena George warns food establishments to obtain health cards for employees within four weeks

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister Veena George said strict action will be taken if those working in food establishments in the state do not get health cards within four weeks. Health card is mandatory. During a special drive conducted by the Food Safety Department, it was found that some employees do not have health cards and some have not renewed them. All food establishments like hotels, restaurants, etc. should ensure health card for employees.

Food safety inspection is going on vigorously in the state. 7,584 tests were conducted in June and so far this month. 206 establishments have been shut down. A fine of Rs 28,42,250 was levied. 1065 statutory samples and 3798 surveillance samples were collected. Rectification notices were issued to 741 firms and compounding notices to 720 firms. Prosecution proceedings were taken against 54 institutions and adjudication proceedings against 90 institutions.

Shawarma Special Squad conducted 512 inspections. 52 institutions have been shut down. 1993 inspections were conducted as part of Operation Monsoon and 2645 inspections as part of Operation LIFE. 583 tests were conducted to ensure the safety of the fish.