Vijayawada Eateries Found Using Hazardous Food Colors

Food safety authorities in Vijayawada have detected the use of hazardous artificial food colors in biryani and chicken preparations sold at roadside eateries. Officials inspected numerous stalls on Eat Street, leading to the seizure and destruction of approximately 55 to 60 kgs of food items found to contain these unsafe additives.

This crackdown is part of a broader initiative to enhance surveillance of food outlets, especially during the monsoon season, to mitigate the risks of food contamination and food-borne illnesses. The use of unauthorized artificial colors can pose significant health risks to consumers, prompting officials to also scrutinize hygiene practices in kitchens.

In response, the municipal corporation and food safety department have initiated a citywide awareness campaign. This campaign aims to educate food vendors on maintaining proper kitchen hygiene and food safety standards to prevent outbreaks of food poisoning and diarrheal diseases. Future inspections are planned across other food courts and eateries in Vijayawada.