Siliguri, 08th September: A joint team comprising the Jalpaiguri SDO, Food Safety Department and Enforcement Branch conducted an inspection at several restaurants and pubs at a shopping mall on Sevoke Road in Siliguri. Multiple alleged irregularities related to food storage and hygiene were found during the inspection.
During the inspection, meat allegedly stored for a long period was found in the refrigerators of several restaurants. Allegations were also raised over non-compliance with food storage regulations.
As per government regulations, vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items are required to be stored separately and in accordance with specified hygiene standards. However, during the inspection, different types of food items were found stored together in the same refrigerators or storage areas at several places. Expired food items were also reportedly found.
Following the detection of irregularities, several restaurants and food outlets were reportedly directed to remain closed.
The administration stated that there would be no compromise with food safety and public health. Such inspections will also continue at restaurants, food outlets and pubs across the city in the coming days.
