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FDA Shuts Down ISKCON Kitchens for Serious Food Safety Breaches
9 Sep
Summary
- Three ISKCON restaurants had licenses suspended for violating food safety rules.
- Inspections revealed pest infestation and lack of cleaning in kitchens.
- ISKCON Juhu acknowledged issues and initiated corrective measures.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently suspended the licenses of three restaurants operated by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) at Hare Krishna Land, Juhu. This action was taken following serious violations of food safety and hygiene rules discovered during an inspection on September 3.
The inspection teams found significant issues at ISKCON's Govinda's Restaurant and Food Services Restaurant. Deficiencies included inadequate cleaning of raw materials, accumulation of water in cold storage, choked drains, and evidence of pest infestation. Some food handlers were reportedly not using aprons or gloves.
Further findings at Food Services Restaurant indicated a lack of proper segregation between raw and cooked food, with insect feces found in the store room. Periodic testing of edible oil and food items was not being conducted, and food handlers lacked necessary medical check-ups and vaccinations.
Another food establishment on the ISKCON premises also exhibited serious deficiencies in sanitation, pest control, personal hygiene, and record management. ISKCON Juhu issued a statement acknowledging the FDA notice and confirming that corrective measures have been initiated to achieve full compliance with regulatory standards. Kitchen operations are currently closed.
