Hyderabad: With an increasing number of food businesses failing to maintain proper kitchen hygiene and cleanliness, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has stepped in to protect the safety of consumers. The corporation has released a set of guidelines that all food outlets, including restaurants, cafes, and catering services, must follow. These guidelines are based on regulations set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The move follows several incidents where consumers found insects, worms, and hair in their food. During raids at well-known restaurants and eateries, food safety violations were also observed. To restore public trust in the city’s food services, the GHMC is focusing on making sure food establishments follow these new rules.
One major requirement is that all eating establishments must install CCTV cameras in their kitchen areas. The GHMC also requires that businesses maintain an active FSSAI license and comply with five key areas: design & facilities, operational controls, maintenance & sanitation, and personal hygiene.
Additionally, restaurants are required to ensure that the ingredients they use are purchased from approved vendors. They must also inspect raw materials upon delivery for any potential safety risks. Proper storage is also emphasized, with food being stored according to its temperature requirements to prevent contamination. For example, foods of animal origin must be stored at 4 degrees Celsius or lower.
Regarding sanitation, the guidelines stress that there should be no signs of pests like insects or rodents in the food preparation areas. Establishments must also ensure that drains are designed to handle waste properly and fitted with traps to catch contaminants. Food waste should be removed regularly to prevent buildup and potential health hazards.
In terms of personal hygiene, the guidelines state that food handlers must undergo yearly medical exams and vaccinations. Employees must follow strict cleanliness rules, and establishments are required to provide proper training and equipment for food handlers. Additionally, there must be at least one trained supervisor for every 25 food handlers.
Lastly, food businesses are required to keep up-to-date records on pest control, employee health, and the disposal of used cooking oil. These measures aim to ensure that food outlets in Hyderabad maintain a high standard of hygiene and food safety for the benefit of the public.
