Published Jul 01, 2026 | 6:38 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 01, 2026 | 6:38 PM
(Special Arrangement)
A Zepto dark store in Mallepally was found infested with cockroaches and rodents during inspections carried out by the Hyderabad Food Administration and Safety Task Force (H-FAST).
The Task Force also uncovered unhygienic food manufacturing practices at a paratha unit and the sale of rotten chicken at a Secunderabad outlet.
The inspections, conducted over June 29 and 30, led to multiple cases being booked under food safety and municipal regulations.
During a surprise inspection on June 30, an H-FAST team led by Sub-Inspector V Akhil visited the Zepto store in Mallepally. Officials found evidence of cockroach and rodent infestation inside the premises, raising concerns over sanitation and the storage of food products.
The matter was referred to Food Safety Officer Sameena Begum of the Hyderabad Medical Circle for action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
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Advance-dated food packets, rotten chicken on sale
In a separate operation on June 29, H-FAST Sub-Inspector P Krishnaiah and Food Safety Officer Soumya Reddy inspected a paratha manufacturing unit in Tadban. The team found unhygienic conditions at the facility, including poor food handling practices. Officials also detected food packets carrying advance-dated packaging, following which the seized material was handed over to Bahadurpura Police for further investigation and legal action.
Another inspection on June 30 targeted Eagle Fisheries in Secunderabad. H-FAST Sub-Inspector P Abhilash, accompanied by GHMC Veterinary Doctor Dr Vasu, found rotten chicken being stored and offered for sale at the outlet.
Officials apprehended the person responsible and transferred the case to the GHMC Veterinary Department for further action. A fine of ₹3,000 was also imposed on the establishment.
Authorities said the inspections were part of H-FAST’s continuing enforcement drive to improve food hygiene standards across Hyderabad. They warned that food business operators found violating food safety regulations would face legal action under the relevant provisions of the law.
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(With inputs from Sumit Jha.)
