Unsafe food practices in Medak raising public health concern

Metro India News | MEDAK 

Growing concerns are being raised over food safety standards at hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and roadside food stalls across the district, with consumers alleging that many establishments are compromising public health in pursuit of profits. Residents have also accused regulatory authorities of failing to enforce food safety norms, allowing violations to continue unchecked. According to consumers, several food outlets are allegedly using chemical additives and artificial coloring agents to enhance the appearance of food and attract customers despite the potential health risks.

Residents say the absence of consistent monitoring by the concerned departments has enabled such businesses to operate without adhering to mandatory safety norms. Medak town, a major commercial hub for education, healthcare, transport, employment and trade, attracts people from nearly 100 surrounding villages every day. A large number of students and employees also reside in the town, further increasing the demand for hotels, curry points and fast-food centers.

Questions have also been raised regarding the quality of water used in preparing food items as well as sanitation at manufacturing units and food storage practices. Residents have called for inspections to determine whether non-vegetarian hotels are serving leftover food and using leftover oil from previous days. Another concern is whether food establishments possess the mandatory licenses required to operate. Citizens have urged officials to verify whether hotels, fast-food centers, tea stalls, and street food vendors have obtained food safety licenses, trade licenses, and other statutory approvals.