Mangaluru: In a drive aimed at safeguarding public health and ensuring food safety, officials from the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) conducted inspections at street food stalls near the Bejai KSRTC bus stand and seized Ajinomoto that was allegedly being used in food preparation. The inspection also led to fines being imposed on vendors found using banned artificial food colours.
The enforcement drive was carried out by the MCC’s health officials as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that street food vendors comply with food safety regulations and maintain hygienic standards while serving the public.
Ajinomoto seized during inspection
During the inspection, health officials found that some street food vendors were allegedly using Ajinomoto in the preparation of food items.
The officials confiscated the stock found at the stalls, stating that its use was not in compliance with food safety guidelines being enforced during the inspection. The seized material was taken into custody for further action.
The inspection covered several food stalls operating near the Bejai KSRTC bus stand, a busy area frequented by commuters and the public.
Fines imposed for banned food colours
In a separate action during the inspection, the health officials imposed a total fine of Rs 6,000 on three street food stalls near State Bank in Mangaluru for using banned artificial food colours in food items.
Officials said the use of prohibited colours poses health risks and violates food safety regulations. The vendors were penalised after the violations were detected during the inspection.
The MCC has been conducting periodic checks to discourage the use of unsafe food additives and ensure that food sold to the public meets prescribed safety standards.
Vendors warned to follow food safety norms
Following the inspection, health officials instructed all street food vendors to strictly comply with food hygiene and food safety regulations.
They advised vendors to use only permitted ingredients and maintain cleanliness while preparing and serving food. Officials also emphasised the importance of following guidelines issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act to protect consumer health.
The team cautioned vendors against using unauthorised additives or substances that could pose health risks to customers.
Legal action against violators
The MCC issued a stern warning that strict legal action would be initiated under the Food Safety Act against vendors found violating food safety norms or using harmful substances in food preparation.
Officials said inspections would continue across different parts of the city to ensure compliance with regulations and to prevent the sale of unsafe food.
The civic body urged food business operators to adhere to prescribed standards, noting that maintaining hygiene and serving safe food are essential for protecting public health and building consumer confidence.
The latest enforcement drive reflects the Mangaluru City Corporation’s continued efforts to improve food safety standards and ensure that residents and visitors have access to hygienically prepared food across the city.