Hyderabad: Some of Hyderabad’s most popular restaurants have come under the scanner after food safety officials uncovered serious hygiene violations during surprise inspections across Madhapur, Kondapur, Hitec City, and Gachibowli. The inspections revealed multiple lapses in food safety, sanitation, and kitchen maintenance at several well-known eateries, prompting authorities to issue notices to the establishments.

Restaurants such as Mehfil and Shah Ghouse, both famous for their Hyderabadi biryani, were among those inspected. According to officials, several kitchens failed to meet basic hygiene standards. Inspectors reportedly found unclean food preparation areas, poor waste management, expired ingredients, improperly stored raw food, and signs of pest infestation in some kitchens.

The Food Safety Department observed that food was being stored in unhygienic conditions, while some spices and other ingredients had crossed their expiry dates. Officials also reported finding insects and cockroaches in certain storage areas, raising concerns about food handling practices and compliance with safety regulations.

Following the inspections, notices were issued to restaurants found violating food safety norms, directing them to immediately rectify the deficiencies. Authorities warned that stricter action, including penalties or temporary closure, could follow if violations are not addressed within the stipulated time.

The Food Safety Department has urged restaurants to maintain proper sanitation, ensure safe food storage, and strictly adhere to hygiene standards to protect public health. Officials also encouraged consumers to report unhygienic food practices through the appropriate government channels.

The latest inspections serve as a reminder that while Hyderabad’s world-famous biryani continues to attract thousands of food lovers every day, maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety is equally important for protecting customer health.