Fungal Infestation and Safety Lapses Uncovered at Hyderabad's Hotel Sweekar

Contaminated Produce and Unsanitary Conditions

The Telangana food safety department conducted a surprise inspection at Hotel Sweekar, located at Kachiguda X Roads in Hyderabad, on Sunday, July 26. Officials discovered a kitchen environment plagued by poor sanitation and a housefly infestation. The search revealed that staff utilized boiled potatoes that had not been properly cleaned or peeled, while primary ingredients showed signs of severe decay. Inspectors identified cabbage contaminated with fungus, tomatoes that were visibly rotten, and lemons suffering from citrus canker.

Regulatory Violations and Missing Documentation

The establishment failed to meet multiple legal requirements regarding record-keeping and staffing. Authorities noted that the hotel lacked personnel trained in Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC). Furthermore, management could not provide mandatory records concerning employee health checks, pest control measures, water quality analysis, or the disposal of spent cooking oil. During the sweep, officials seized a 700-gram packet of New Classic Hakka Noodles. The product lacked a batch number and nutritional facts, violating the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations.

Storage Risks and Legal Consequences

Investigating the storage areas, officials found that prepared foods sat uncovered and without identifying labels inside refrigeration units. In a serious breach of hygiene protocol, raw vegetables were stored directly alongside semi-prepared items, such as boiled noodles. This practice significantly increases the potential for cross-contamination. Consequently, the food safety department has formally initiated enforcement proceedings against the business under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Source: The Hindu — Cities