Table of Contents
On Monday, 8th July, the Food Safety Department of Telangana conducted a comprehensive raid on Telugu actor Sundeep Kishan’s restaurant, Vivaha Bhojanambu, at its Secunderabad branch. The raid was part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with food safety regulations across the state.
Inspection Details: What Prompted the FSSAI Raid?
The inspection, led by officials from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), was prompted by routine checks aimed at maintaining high standards of food hygiene and safety. Vivaha Bhojanambu, known for its traditional Telugu cuisine, came under scrutiny due to several reported irregularities.
Key Food Safety Violations Discovered
During the inspection, FSSAI officials identified multiple food safety violations and lapses in hygienic practices. These findings were significant, highlighting potential health risks to patrons:
1. Expired Food Products: Inspectors found 25 kgs of Chittmutyalu Rice that had expired in 2022, a major concern for food safety.
2. Use of Synthetic Food Colors: The raid revealed 500 grams of grated coconut containing synthetic food colours, which can pose health risks.
3. Improper Labeling: Several semi-cooked foods and raw materials stored in steel containers were improperly labelled, complicating food safety tracking.
4. Uncovered Dustbins and Stagnant Water: Dustbins without lids and stagnant water in kitchen drains were noted, indicating poor sanitary conditions.
5. Lack of Medical Certificates: The restaurant failed to provide medical fitness certificates for food handlers, raising concerns about the potential spread of food-borne illnesses.
6. Absence of Water Analysis Report: There was no water analysis report for the “bubble water” used in cooking and serving customers, which is critical for ensuring safe consumption.
7. Partial Compliance: While some practices like food handlers wearing hairnets and uniforms were followed, many other essential procedures were neglected.
FSSAI’s Official Statement and Future Actions
FSSAI officials commented that Vivaha Bhojanambu was only partially compliant with the necessary food safety standards. They emphasised the importance of strict adherence to all regulations to ensure customer safety. Officials also mentioned that the restaurant’s pest control records were available and that a valid FSSAI license was displayed prominently.
Broader Implications: Previous Raids and Findings
This raid is part of a series of inspections carried out by the Telangana Food Safety Department across various locations. Earlier, teams visited cloud kitchens in Ameerpet and eateries in Hyderabad’s Tolichowki and Gachibowli areas. These inspections revealed similar violations:
Hakuna Matata Kitchen: Food handlers were found working without proper headgear, gloves, and aprons. The establishment also lacked insect-proof screens, and essential documents, and could not produce a true copy of its FSSAI license.
Tabula Rasa: Inspectors discovered 12 kg of expired prawns and Turkish milk. The expired products were discarded immediately to prevent health risks.
Actor Sundeep Kishan’s Response and Restaurant’s History
Sundeep Kishan, who opened Vivaha Bhojanambu a few years ago, now has branches in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills and AS Rao Nagar, as well as in Tirupati, Ananthapur, and Chennai. The actor, known for his roles in both Telugu and Tamil films, including the recent “Captain Miller” and “Ooru Peru Bhairavakona,” has not yet commented publicly on the raid.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The raid and its findings quickly gained attention on social media, particularly on the platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter). Many users expressed their concerns about food safety and hygiene standards, while some fans of Sundeep Kishan were disappointed by the revelations.
Ensuring Compliance: Next Steps for Vivaha Bhojanambu
To address the violations, Vivaha Bhojanambu will need to undertake several corrective actions. These include discarding expired products, ensuring proper labelling, maintaining hygienic conditions, and obtaining all necessary certifications. Regular training for staff on food safety protocols is also essential.
Conclusion: Importance of Food Safety
This incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to food safety standards to protect public health. It serves as a reminder to all food establishments to maintain high standards of hygiene and compliance with regulations to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their customers.
By following these steps and addressing the violations, Vivaha Bhojanambu can regain customer trust and continue to provide quality service.
