Among the most alarming findings were cockroach infestations in both the cooking and grinding areas.
Hyderabad: Food safety officials have recently carried out inspections in various establishments across the state, revealing serious food safety issues. Among the inspected sites was Instahot Foods Pvt. Ltd., located in IDA Patancheru, Hyderabad, which supplies products to IndiGo Airlines. During their visit on February 12, the task force noted several significant violations.
Among the most alarming findings were cockroach infestations in both the cooking and grinding areas. Additionally, expired food products were discovered, including 1.25 kilograms of Kasturi Methi, half a kilo of mustard seeds, and one kilogram of Rai Mota (a variety of mustard seeds). Furthermore, the officials seized 1.5 kilograms of nutmeg due to labelling issues, including the absence of crucial information such as MRP, Batch Number, and packing date.
The inspection also revealed numerous hygiene and storage problems. Several vegetables were found to be rotten, while others were improperly stored, such as items kept on the ground and under a leaking air conditioner.
The task force highlighted a lack of proper storage practices, such as the absence of a First In, First Out (FIFO) system, and the use of rusted racks. Other concerns included unsanitary dustbins, food waste in plastic bags, poor flooring, and clogged drains. Additionally, the water analysis provided by a non-NABL accredited laboratory was deemed unacceptable. The officials also found that the latest records for packaging material testing were missing.
In response, IndiGo Airlines told NDTV, “We are cognisant of the investigation involving an in-flight food supplier. Upon receiving this information, we immediately discontinued the supply of products that were being sourced from them. We want to emphasise our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of food and beverage service on board.”
On the same day, the task force also inspected Asati Rajkumar Roller Flour Mills Pvt. Ltd., also located in IDA Patancheru. Similar violations were found here, with the FSSAI license not prominently displayed and important records such as pest control reports, water analysis, employee health records, FoSTaC certificates, and food and packaging material testing records being unavailable.
The grain washing section was noted to be extremely unhygienic, with a foul smell permeating the area. Similarly, the storage space for cleaned wheat before milling was found to be in poor condition, with cobwebs observed. Personal hygiene of the food handlers was another issue, as they were not wearing aprons, haircaps, or following other basic hygiene practices. The task force also noted an infestation of rodents and birds, with their faeces found on the premises.
The storage practices at the mill raised further concerns, as food items were found stored alongside non-food items like cement and tyres. Some food articles were even placed directly on the ground instead of on pallets. Furthermore, the mill’s walls and ceilings were described as patchy and flaky, with visible cobwebs.
