As the festive season approaches, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has intensified food safety measures by conducting surprise inspections of sweet shops across the city. The initiative aims to ensure that hygiene and quality standards are strictly maintained during the preparation and sale of sweets, safeguarding public health during Diwali when consumption of sweets and snacks peaks.
Officials from GHMC’s Food Safety Wing inspected 43 establishments on Tuesday, checking compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the associated Rules and Regulations, 2011. Violations of hygiene norms were met with notices, while serious infractions may lead to adjudication before the relevant authorities.A senior GHMC official emphasised that the inspections form part of a broader strategy to minimise public health risks and maintain high-quality standards in food preparation areas. Sweet shop operators have been instructed to properly label items with preparation dates and shelf life, maintain cleanliness in kitchens and display counters, and adhere to standard operating procedures for food safety.
The GHMC Commissioner’s directive for this targeted drive is intended to prevent the sale of substandard food products, which could otherwise compromise the festive experience for residents. These efforts are expected to continue throughout the festival period, with authorities planning ongoing checks to monitor compliance across Hyderabad.Food Safety Officers are also focusing on awareness, urging sweet shop operators to adopt sustainable and hygienic practices while reducing the environmental impact of packaging and waste. By integrating these measures, GHMC aims to encourage responsible operations that align with public health, sustainability, and equity goals.
Experts highlight that this proactive approach not only ensures consumer safety but also reinforces public confidence in food businesses during peak demand periods. Regular inspections combined with compliance enforcement can help reduce risks associated with mass food consumption during major festivals.By strategically targeting high-footfall sweet shops and enforcing food safety norms, GHMC is attempting to create a secure and reliable food environment while promoting responsible business practices. The initiative underlines the importance of municipal oversight in maintaining standards in the food sector, especially during periods of increased demand. The city-wide drive underscores GHMC’s commitment to health, safety, and consumer protection while encouraging food operators to uphold consistent quality standards. Authorities will continue monitoring compliance, ensuring that Hyderabad’s festive season remains both joyous and safe for all residents.
