Licenses of 8 cloud kitchens cancelled in Hyderabad for hygiene violations

The FSSAI licenses of 8 cloud kitchens and restaurants in Hyderabad have been suspended after inspections conducted by the Telangana Standards Authority for Food and Essential Drugs (TG SAFE) revealed serious hygiene violations. During the operation, inspectors found infestations of cockroaches and rats, expired food ingredients, and contaminated components. In the interest of public health, all these establishments have been ordered to cease operations with immediate effect.

According to a report by The Hindu, a total of 23 cloud kitchens and restaurants were inspected in Hyderabad on Tuesday. For this purpose, 24 enforcement teams comprising food safety officers and personnel from the Hyderabad City Police were deployed. Several grave deficiencies came to light during these inspections.

The establishments whose licenses have been suspended include 'Biryani by Kilo' in Gachibowli, 'Kulcha Culture' in Madhapur, 'Lucky Multi Cuisine Restaurant' in Somajiguda, 'Tum Yum Innovisions' in Madhapur, 'Zora 11 by 2' in Khairatabad, 'LO Fresh Foods' in Madhapur, 'ITC Aashirvaad Soul Creations' in Gachibowli, and 'Sodexo India Services' in Kondapur.

According to information provided by TG SAFE, insects were found in wheat flour, vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods were not stored properly, there was a rat infestation, stoves were dirty, and potatoes had rotted. Additionally, issues such as blocked drains, unclean kitchen floors, grease accumulation in chimneys, and milk leaking on storage racks were observed, posing a high risk of food contamination.

During the inspection, officials collected 25 food samples on suspicion of adulteration. Furthermore, approximately 700 kg of spoiled and contaminated food materials were destroyed.

As part of this action, improvement notices have been issued to five establishments. These include 'AVA Cloud Kitchens' in Lingampally, 'Harley's India' in Pragathi Nagar, 'Hunger Experiment' in Madhapur, 'Fruitique' in Kompally, and the 'Rebel Foods Behrouz Biryani' outlet in Khairatabad. Re-inspections will be conducted to verify whether these establishments comply with food safety standards.

Additionally, show-cause notices have been issued to 10 establishments for violating hygiene rules. This list includes 'Prism Hospitality Services' in Miyapur, 'Ghar The Cloud Kitchen' in Kokapet, 'Rebel Foods' outlets in Serilingampally and Shaikpet, ' Curefoods India' in Kompally, 'Squeezy Hospitality' in Madhapur, 'Sri Kakatiya Deluxe Mess' in Ameerpet, 'FA Gifts' in Gachibowli, 'Allure India Food Services' in Gopanpally, and 'Potfull India' in Madhapur. Officials stated that further action, including fines, will be taken against these establishments.