Widespread Adulteration of Snacks and deep fried food in Anantapur: Food Safety Department Under Fire

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Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh — The Food Safety and Control Department in Anantapur has faced severe criticism for its inaction regarding the sale and production of adulterated deep-fried snacks and other food items in the city. Reports indicate a troubling trend of substandard food being sold, particularly affecting vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.

 

Despite a surge in viral fevers and numerous public complaints about food safety, the department has remained largely inactive. Allegations of widespread corruption have emerged, targeting food safety controllers and inspectors who appear to be turning a blind eye to these pressing health concerns.

Sources reveal that the oil testing equipment used by the department has been out of service for months, severely hindering the ability to monitor food quality. Many local eateries and manufacturers operate without the necessary FSSAI licenses, yet the food safety authorities have failed to take action, raising questions about accountability and regulatory compliance.

Local residents have voiced frustration, stating that their complaints often go unaddressed. Worse, some complainants have reported retaliation from food vendors who have been tipped off about their grievances, further dissuading citizens from reporting unsafe food practices.

The situation is exacerbated by the widespread use of banned colors and chemicals in food preparation, alongside alarming reports of unhygienic kitchen conditions. Health experts warn that continued exposure to such adulterated food could lead to severe and potentially irreversible health issues for affected populations.

“This is an unprecedented crisis in Anantapur,” said a local health activist. “The indifference shown by the Food Safety Department poses a grave threat to public health, especially for our children and the elderly. Immediate intervention is necessary.”

Adding to this tragedy is the transportation of deep fried items like samosas in paint buckets openly across the town which are full of dirt and extremely unhygienic is having a direct impact on the health of the consumers of the 50000 plus samosas everyday , not to mention the the kind of vegetables inside them

With public trust in the food safety system eroding, many are calling for urgent government action. Citizens are demanding accountability from the district collector and a comprehensive review of the practices within the Food Safety and Control Department.

As the community grapples with these serious health risks, the spotlight remains on the officials responsible for ensuring food safety, urging them to prioritize the health and safety of Anantapur’s residents before it’s too late.

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