Sri Lanka, Feb. 17 -- Health officials say their hands are often tied when it comes to taking action against unhygienic food outlets, as many customers who raise concerns on social media fail to lodge formal complaints.

The issue came into focus following a viral video in which a diner claimed he found what appeared to be a small snake-like head in a rice and curry meal at the Pilawoos restaurant in Bambalapitiya. The video triggered widespread public concern and debate over food safety standards.

However, a senior health official told the Daily Mirror that despite the attention the video received, the individual involved has not made an official complaint.

"Even though there was a big noise on social media, the person concerned has no...