Health Dept team inspects fast food outlets

The Food Safety Team carried out a comprehensive inspection targeting various fast food outlets and restaurants across key areas of Ludhiana.

Providing information about the drive, District Health Officer Ashish Chawla said the team inspected multiple food establishments located in Model Town, Shastri Nagar, Ishmeet Chowk and Tuition Market. The inspection was conducted as part of routine surveillance to ensure that food business operators comply with prescribed safety and hygiene standards.

During the drive, the team collected samples of pizza sauce, cream, used cooking oil, vegetable bullets and gravy. The food items were selected keeping in view their frequent use in fast food preparations and the potential risk of quality degradation or adulteration, if proper standards are not maintained.

Dr Chawla said all collected samples had been properly sealed and sent to an accredited laboratory for detailed analysis. He further emphasised that necessary action would be taken as per laboratory reports and in accordance with provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.

Reiterating the importance of regulatory compliance, he highlighted that all food business operators are required to adhere to food safety guidelines, which include maintaining proper hygiene, using safe and approved ingredients and ensuring quality in food preparation and storage.

Dr Chawla also urged food vendors to avoid reuse of cooking oil beyond permissible limits and strictly follow food safety norms. Consumers have been advised to remain cautious and report any concerns regarding food quality to the authorities concerned.