Hyderabad Ranks Last in Food Quality Index: NCRB Survey Highlights Alarming Adulteration Levels
Hyderabad, November 16, 2024
In a startling revelation, a National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) survey on food safety ranked Hyderabad at the bottom of the food quality index among 19 major cities across India. This finding has sent shockwaves through the city, which is renowned for its culinary heritage, including the globally loved Hyderabadi biryani. The report has raised serious concerns about the prevalence of adulteration and poor quality practices in Hyderabad’s food sector.
Adulteration Tarnishes Hyderabad’s Culinary Image
The survey revealed that Hyderabad ranks highest in the country for adulterated food, a major blow to its reputation. It noted that many hotels and restaurants in the city are failing to meet even the minimum quality standards required by food safety regulations. This has damaged consumer trust and the city’s famed “biryani brand,” which is a significant part of its cultural and economic identity.
Public Health at Risk
The NCRB report highlighted that substandard practices in food preparation, storage, and handling pose a severe risk to public health. Food adulteration, which often involves the addition of harmful chemicals, can lead to long-term health issues, including food poisoning, organ damage, and other severe conditions.
GHMC Food Safety Department on High Alert
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Food Safety Department has taken serious note of the findings and has pledged decisive action. Following the release of the NCRB report, GHMC officials held an emergency meeting to address the issue and chart out an action plan.
“Inspections of hotels and restaurants will be intensified, and we will not hesitate to take strict action against those violating food safety standards. Surprise raids will continue until the situation improves,” a GHMC official announced.
Steps to Ensure Compliance
The department has decided to implement a series of measures to restore public confidence:
Increased Inspections: Random checks at restaurants, street food stalls, and commercial kitchens to ensure compliance with food safety norms.
Awareness Campaigns: Educating food handlers and business owners about the importance of maintaining hygiene and quality.
Fines and Penalties: Heavy penalties for establishments found guilty of food adulteration or poor practices.
Regular Monitoring: Establishing a robust monitoring system for food quality across the city.
Call for Action
Consumer advocacy groups and health experts have called for stricter regulations and enforcement to address the widespread adulteration issue. They have also urged the public to report any food safety violations they encounter.
Rebuilding the Culinary Legacy
Hyderabad, known for its rich culinary heritage, now faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation. The GHMC, in collaboration with other regulatory bodies, aims to restore consumer confidence by enforcing stricter food safety standards and ensuring accountability among food businesses.
As the city grapples with these revelations, the focus is on swift and effective measures to protect public health and revive the pride of Hyderabad’s iconic cuisine.
