Hotels and fast-food outlets remain under scanner as raids intensify across city

Bengaluru: The Food Safety Department has intensified its inspections of hotels, restaurants and fast-food outlets across Bengaluru, with officials checking food quality, hygiene, labelling and packaging standards.

The latest inspections were conducted at several establishments, including popular hotels and eateries on Brigade Road.

A five-member team visited restaurants and fast-food centres in the area and examined the quality of prepared food, raw materials and meat products. Officials also collected samples of food items wherever they found them suspicious and are preparing to send them to laboratories for detailed testing.

The inspections are part of a wider enforcement drive launched across the city following concerns over food safety violations. Food Safety Department Commissioner Srinivas said inspections had been under way since Friday and that several establishments had been found violating prescribed regulations.

According to officials, around 30 establishments were targeted for inspection on Saturday.

Of these, inspections had been completed at 26 locations, while notices were issued to 11 establishments for alleged violations. Several food samples were collected during the inspections.

Officials also found violations related to labelling and packaging requirements at some hotels.

The establishments concerned have been issued notices and will be required to explain the lapses.

The department has warned that serious violations could lead to prosecution and cancellation of food business licences. Officials said enforcement action would continue in Bengaluru and would subsequently be extended to other districts across Karnataka.

The department is also keeping a close watch on commonly consumed junk-food products. Samples of bread, sauces and other food items are being collected for laboratory analysis amid concerns over their quality and potential health risks.Officials said further action would be taken based on laboratory reports.

If the samples are found to violate food safety standards, the concerned establishments could face action under the applicable laws.

The intensified inspections are aimed at ensuring that food businesses comply with safety standards and that consumers are not exposed to substandard or unsafe food products.