In a recent inspection, the Telangana food safety task force uncovered significant hygiene violations at a Burger King outlet in Hyderabads Malakpet area. The inspection, conducted on October 1, 2024, revealed a series of lapses in food safety and hygiene practices.
Expired and Improperly Stored Food
Inspectors found that the Burger King outlet was operating with expired food items and improper storage practices. Expired milk packets and other food items were discovered and immediately discarded. The storage area was also found to be in a substandard condition, with food items not properly labelled or covered.
Unhygienic Kitchen Conditions
The kitchen premises of the Burger King outlet were found to be highly unhygienic. The kitchen doors and windows were open to the outside environment without insect-proof screens, allowing houseflies and other pests to enter. Additionally, the refrigerators used for storing food were in an unhygienic condition, and dustbins were found without lids.
Non-Compliance with Food Safety Regulations
The inspection also revealed that the outlet was using oil beyond the permissible safety limits. This is a critical violation as it can pose serious health risks to consumers. Furthermore, the Food Business Operator (FBO) failed to produce necessary documents such as pest control records and medical fitness certificates for the food handlers.
The food safety task force has taken immediate action, discarding all non-compliant food items and issuing warnings to the management to rectify the violations promptly. This crackdown is part of a broader initiative to ensure that all restaurants in Hyderabad adhere to strict food safety standards.
