The Food Safety Department has intensified its crackdown on adulterated and unsafe food items in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district, conducting surprise inspections at hotels and restaurants in Semaria and Allahabad Road. During the raids, officials seized expired cold drinks from one restaurant and initiated legal action against another eatery where samosas and sweets were allegedly being prepared in unhygienic conditions.

The inspections were carried out on the directions of Rewa Collector Narendra Kumar Suryavanshi as part of an ongoing drive to ensure food safety, particularly during the monsoon season.

Expired Cold Drinks Seized

The food safety team first inspected Indian Flavour Restaurant in Semaria, where officials found 15 bottles of expired cold drinks allegedly kept for sale to customers.

The expired beverages were seized, and proceedings were initiated against the restaurant operator, Lavkush Chourasia, under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Officials said selling expired food or beverages poses a serious health risk and constitutes a violation of food safety regulations.

Unhygienic Food Preparation Found

The inspection team later visited Benam Samosa Hotel on Allahabad Road, where samosas and sweets were allegedly being prepared in unsanitary conditions.

According to the Food Safety Department, the kitchen lacked adequate hygiene, raising concerns about food quality and consumer safety.

Action has been initiated against the establishment's operator, Arvind Sahu, under Section 58 of the Food Safety and Standards Act for violations related to food safety standards.

Traders Warned to Follow Food Safety Norms

Following the inspections, the department issued a warning to hotel owners, restaurant operators and food business establishments across the district, directing them to maintain cleanliness and comply strictly with food safety regulations, especially during the rainy season.

Officials said strict action would continue against businesses found selling expired food products or violating hygiene standards.

Residents Seek Wider Inspection Drive

Despite the latest enforcement action, local residents said complaints regarding poor hygiene and food quality continue to emerge from several eateries across the district.

They urged the administration to expand the inspection campaign beyond a few establishments and conduct regular district-wide checks to ensure that all food businesses comply with food safety norms.

Authorities have indicated that surprise inspections will continue as part of the district's ongoing effort to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.