Move comes after surprise inspection
VASCO
The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Monday morning directed a restaurant in Vasco to shut down immediately due to unhygienic conditions on the premises.
The decision was taken after an FDA team carried out a surprise inspection at the ‘Mandi House’ restaurant.
Speaking to the media after the inspection, FDA officer Sanjyot Kudalkar said the restaurant would remain closed until it complies with all hygiene norms and submits a compliance report.
“When we entered this place, we found it very unhygienic, and we have asked the owner to close down the restaurant,” Kudalkar said.
“Only after compliance is submitted will we inspect the place again and decide on reopening.”
During the inspection, officials noted several serious lapses.
“Raw and cooked food were stored together, the refrigerator was extremely dirty, and a lot of unwanted items were kept on the premises. Food items were stored in broken plastic containers, and we also found the use of food colour, which is not permitted,” Kudalkar stated.
He further pointed out that sauces were stored in used mineral water bottlesw, the flooring was dirty, water had collected in the storeroom, and the washing area was unclean.
“We also found a toilet within the premises, which we have asked to be shut down,” he added.
Kudalkar stressed the importance of food safety and public health.
“Everyone deserves good health and hygienically prepared food. Restaurants must ensure proper food practices, including keeping vegetarian and non-vegetarian items separate, avoiding the use of colour, and never using newspaper to serve food,” he said.
The FDA has asked the restaurant owner to rectify all deficiencies and submit a compliance report to the FDA office. A follow-up inspection will be conducted before permission to reopen is granted.
