MAPUSA
In a continued effort to ensure food safety and consumer protection, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Goa carried out surprise inspections and raids across the State, with notable action taken in North Goa.
A biryani outlet in Calangute was ordered to shut down immediately after it was found operating in highly unhygienic conditions, raising serious concerns about food safety.
Based on a tip-off, a surveillance team from the FDA, led by Richard Noronha (Designated Officer “ North Goa), along with Senior Food Safety Officer Rajaram Patil and Food Safety Officer Lenin De Sa, inspected the premises of Ms Hyderabad Dum Biryani located at Naika Vaddo, Calangute.
During the inspection, officials discovered that raw chicken was being washed in a washroom used for sanitation purposes, in gross violation of food hygiene norms.
“We found the establishment preparing food in conditions unfit for human consumption. Chicken was being washed in the toilet area, which is a serious health hazard. The outlet was instructed to cease operations immediately,” a FDA official said.
The FDA confirmed that further legal action is underway against the proprietor under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Authorities also stated that such inspections will continue, particularly in tourist-heavy coastal areas where food safety standards often face neglect during peak seasons.
In a parallel operation, FDA officials took action against vendors selling chocolate analogue “ a cheaper substitute for real chocolate “ mislabeled as "chocolates," thereby misleading consumers.
The team seized stocks of mislabelled products from various retailers.
One of the suppliers, Nut Inn, had previously been directed by the FDA to stop selling these misleading products but was found continuing the practice.
As a result, their stock was detained and enforcement proceedings have been initiated.
"These products are not genuine chocolates and can mislead unsuspecting buyers, especially tourists and children. Labelling integrity is a serious matter. We urge all vendors to strictly adhere to food labelling laws," the FDA official said.
