Karnataka Food Safety Alert: Expired Food Found!

Karnataka's food service establishments are under increased scrutiny for hygiene and safety compliance. A recent advisory from the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department mandates strict adherence to food safety requirements. This action follows intensive inspection drives that uncovered expired food products and poor hygienic conditions at various businesses, including some star hotels.

The department's advisory covers critical areas such as food preparation, storage, staff hygiene, water quality, and waste disposal. Businesses must ensure cooking areas are clean and well-ventilated, with separate sinks for washing raw food and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.

Emphasis is placed on proper food handling, including thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, covering stored ingredients, and maintaining hot food above 60°C and cold food below 5°C. Food handlers are required to maintain high personal hygiene standards and wear clean protective clothing. The use of safe, potable water and regular water quality testing is also emphasized.