A recent inspection at Zomato’s Hyperpure warehouse in Kukatpally, Hyderabad, has raised significant concerns regarding food safety practices. As reported by NDTV, during the inspection on October 29, food safety officials uncovered a troubling breach: 18 kilograms of button mushrooms were found labelled with a future packing date. This violation of food labelling regulations has serious implications for consumer safety and transparency in the food supply chain.
What Issues Were Found?
The Hyperpure warehouse operates as a Food Business Operator (FBO), supplying a diverse range of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and gourmet foods, to hotels, restaurants, and catering services.
Despite being licensed and possessing medical fitness certificates for food handlers, the inspection revealed several alarming issues. Officials reported the presence of house flies within the facility, indicating inadequate pest control measures.
Furthermore, the warehouse lacked a proper insect-proof screen, a crucial element for maintaining hygiene in food storage areas.
Compounding these issues, some food handlers were observed not wearing essential hygiene gear, such as hair caps and aprons. These oversights not only violate food safety protocols but also pose a risk to public health, especially as the festive season of Diwali approaches, when the demand for safe and high-quality food is heightened.
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Similar Issues At BlinkIt Warehouse
This incident comes on the heels of another troubling inspection earlier this year, when a BlinkIt warehouse — owned by Zomato — was found to have similar problems, including expired items and unclean conditions. The findings from both inspections point to a pattern of laxity in adhering to health regulations.
In light of these revelations, Zomato has yet to issue an official response to the recent inspection. However, a spokesperson for BlinkIt reiterated the company's commitment to stringent hygiene and safety standards. They stated that the company is actively collaborating with both the warehouse partner and the Food Safety Department to implement corrective measures in response to the findings.
As food safety officials ramp up inspections across various food establishments in Hyderabad, this incident highlights the critical need for rigorous compliance with health regulations. With the festive season fast approaching, ensuring safe food practices is more important than ever, underscoring the responsibility of food operators to prioritise consumer health and safety.
