Srinagar, May 11 (KNO): The Food Safety Team, Srinagar, has ordered the closure of a food establishment after a viral video showed a cockroach in biryani, officials said here.
They said that on inspection, officials found poor hygiene and signs of pest infestation at the premises. A food sample has been taken for testing, and legal action will follow for violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson of the Food Safety Team, Srinagar, said they took cognisance of a viral video circulating on social media regarding the presence of a cockroach in biryani.
"The team inspected the concerned food establishment and found it in poor hygienic condition. Evidence of cockroach infestation was observed on the premises, and violations of Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, were noted. A sample of prepared food was lifted for analytical purposes as well," he said.
The spokesperson added, “The Food Business Operator had not carried out pest control, which is mandatory under the Act. In view of these violations, the establishment has been closed, and a challan for violating various provisions of the Act will be submitted before the competent court”.
All Food Business Operators are directed to ensure regular pest control and maintain hygiene as mandated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the Food Safety spokesperson said, adding that failure to comply will invite strict action against defaulters as per the provisions of the FSS Act—(KNO)