Kochi Food Safety Drive Fines Shops ₹6,500 for Violations

A targeted food safety initiative in Kadavanthra resulted in fines totaling ₹6,500 for several businesses. The drive, conducted on Thursday, was a collaborative effort involving the Health department, its Food Safety wing, the Kochi Corporation's Health division, and law enforcement.

What Happened

Inspections were carried out at six commercial establishments in the Kadavanthra area. During these checks, authorities identified multiple violations of food safety regulations. These infractions included the use of food coloring that has been prohibited, the presence of stale milk, and a lack of essential documentation such as health cards for staff and reports verifying drinking water quality.

As a follow-up to the inspections, drinking water samples were collected from all six surveyed shops. These samples have been sent for laboratory analysis to ensure compliance with safety standards. Authorities have indicated that these inspections will be stepped up, particularly focusing on hotels, roadside food vendors, and stalls in anticipation of the busy Onam festival period.

Key Facts

• Fines totaling ₹6,500 were imposed on shops in Kadavanthra.
• The fines were issued during a food safety drive conducted on Thursday.
• The drive was a joint operation by the Health department, Food Safety wing, Kochi Corporation's Health division, and the police.
• Inspections covered six outlets in Kadavanthra.
• Violations included the use of banned food coloring and stale milk.
• Absence of health cards and drinking water test reports were also noted.
• Drinking water samples were collected from the six shops for testing.
• Inspections are planned to intensify during the Onam season.