In a continued effort to ensure public access to safe and hygienic food, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) of Goa conducted a surprise inspection drive across Salcete Taluka on June 3. The inspections aimed to assess sanitary conditions and investigate citizen complaints against various food establishments.
Key Findings and Action Taken:
Bakery Unit in Nuvem:
A pav-making unit was found operating under extremely unhygienic conditions. The facility lacked a valid food business license and was functioning in a traditional, non-compliant setup.
Restaurants in Loutlim:
Two restaurants were found in unhygienic conditions and were also functioning without the mandatory licenses.
Catering Unit:
Major deficiencies were observed, including a leaking soakpit, damaged flooring, walls in need of painting, exposed food articles, broken tiles, and unlabelled food items.
Retail Snack Shop:
A retail shop was found selling snacks prepared at the owner's residence, which also lacked licensing. Both locations were unapproved for food business operations.
Open Rooftop Catering:
In a separate routine inspection, food preparation was found to be occurring on an open rooftop, violating food safety norms.
Inspection reports were handed over to the respective Food Business Operators (FBOs), who were directed to bring their operations into compliance with prescribed food safety standards.
The inspection team was led by Designated Officer Sanjyot Kudalkar (South Goa), along with Food Safety Officers Madhav Kavlekar and Pradiksha Chopdekar.
The FDA has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding food safety and protecting public health across the state of Goa.