Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 16: Health and family welfare minister U T Khader has issued a stern warning to food preparation and food-selling establishments, saying “irresponsibility” will not be tolerated and that surprise inspections will continue across Mangaluru.
Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Sunday, August 16, Khader who is also Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister said that despite raids already being conducted against food preparation establishments in Bengaluru, the continuation of similar conditions in Mangaluru was nothing short of irresponsibility on the part of food-selling establishments.
“Immediately after receiving complaints from the public, officials conducted raids and inspections. During the inspections, it was found that food was being prepared in unhygienic conditions. Appropriate legal action has been initiated against the establishments concerned. Such surprise raids will continue regularly in the coming days,” he said.
Khader directed all establishments to mandatorily maintain cleanliness in their kitchens and food storage rooms and ensure the quality of food products.
He made it clear that no establishment would be spared, warning that inspections could be carried out anywhere and at any time.
“Regardless of how big an establishment is, there is no question of giving any concession. Public health is our first priority,” the minister said.
The inspections will also be widened in the coming days, with catering businesses, paying guest (PG) centres and hostels coming under the scanner. Khader said joint operations would be conducted in coordination with other concerned government departments after discussions with the respective authorities.
The minister also acknowledged the shortage of food safety officers and staff, saying the government was aware of the issue.
“As these inspections increase, the government will grant approval for new recruitment. Along with the recruitment of staff, the need for scientific laboratories has also been brought to the government’s attention,” Khader said.
With authorities stepping up inspections, food establishments in Mangaluru are now under clear instructions to maintain strict hygiene, safe food preparation practices and quality standards, with violations liable to invite legal action.