Food safety officials in Hyderabad detected a significant violation during an inspection at Zomato's Hyperpure warehouse in Kukatpally on October 29, 2024. According to a report, 18 kilograms of button mushrooms were labeled with a packing date of October 30, 2024, constituting a "future date of packing" violation. This discovery comes amid the officials' ongoing crackdown on food safety issues ahead of Diwali, having already uncovered serious problems at sweet shops, a momo outlet, and shawarma units in various areas following health complaints.
Hyperpure, Zomato's end-to-end supply chain solution, supplies hotels, restaurants, and caterers with fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, gourmet foods, packaging, consumables, and kitchen equipment, making adherence to stringent food safety standards is crucial. The Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana, continues to inspect food establishments, revealing alarming irregularities. The task force's inspection at the Hyperpure warehouse highlighted concerning labeling discrepancies, underscoring the need for stringent food safety monitoring.
An inspection at Zomato's Hyperpure warehouse, revealed a mixed compliance record. As a registered Food Business Operator (FBO), the warehouse operates with a valid state license, prominently displayed on the premises. Officials confirmed the presence of required Medical Fitness certificates and Pest control records. However, they also discovered food safety violations.
During an inspection at Zomato's Hyperpure warehouse, officials observed several food safety lapses. Houseflies were found inside the premises, which lacked proper insect-proof screening, allowing direct access to the outside environment. Furthermore, some food handlers were not adhering to personal hygiene standards, failing to wear mandatory hair caps and aprons.
These findings, combined with the previously reported "future date of packing" issue, raise concerns about the warehouse's food safety protocols. According to the Commissioner of Food Safety, these violations were documented, but Zomato has yet to respond or comment on the matter.
This isn't the first time the task force has exposed warehouse violations. In June, officials raided Blinkit's warehouse in Devar Yamjal, near Hyderabad, uncovering unhygienic conditions, expired items, potentially infested food, and other issues. Following the inspection, the team announced that a notice would be issued and further action taken. This incident mirrors previous findings at the same Blinkit warehouse, a quick commerce platform owned by Zomato, highlighting recurring concerns.
In response to the inspection findings, Blinkit emphasized its commitment to safety and hygiene, stating that it takes these standards "very seriously." The company assured that it is proactively addressing the issues by collaborating closely with its warehouse partner and the Food Safety Department to implement corrective actions based on the findings.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)