Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar has issued a stern warning to hotels, restaurants, and food courts across the state, declaring that strict action will be taken against any establishment that violates food quality standards.

“Public health and safety are the government’s highest priority, and there will be zero tolerance for negligence in this matter,” Manohar asserted. His remarks come in the wake of alarming findings during recent inspections in Visakhapatnam.

According to the minister, officials inspected 51 restaurants in the Visakhapatnam city and found 44 of them blatantly flouting food safety regulations. Violations included serving stale food, maintaining unhygienic kitchens, and using harmful artificial colours in dishes. Evidence has been collected for legal action against the offenders.

“Some hotel operators are recklessly using substandard and hazardous ingredients, endangering people’s health,” Manohar said, expressing concern over the rising number of foodborne illnesses. He revealed that the issue was recently discussed by a Cabinet sub-committee, which directed officials to act firmly against violators.

Statewide inspections will now be intensified, and the minister made it clear that even the largest and most influential establishments will face legal consequences if found breaching norms. He urged the public to remain vigilant while eating outside and to promptly report any suspicion of unsafe food to authorities.