KOCHI: The Food Safety Department is launching a special inspection in the wake of increasing complaints about the quality of food in the hostel mess.

The inspection will start from Tuesday under the leadership of the assistant commissioners. All private hostels and college hostels in the state will come under scrutiny.

Inspection will be for:

Food safety license and hygiene

Record of drinking water test twice a year

Employee medical fitness certificate

Display board with food safety guidelines

Toll-free number board for reporting complaints

Certificate of staff training

Notice first, then action

If a violation is found during the inspection, notice will be given first. Penalties and legal action will be taken if a violation is noticed on re-inspection. Training will be provided if there are employees who are not trained in FOSTAC (Food Safety Training and Certification). Even the water used to wash dishes in hostels should be disinfected.