New Delhi, Oct. 31 -- On Saturday, the food safety wing of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation's (KMC) conducted an inspection on Saturday at several food stalls near Sealdah station, including the popular and social media-famous Raju Da's Pocket Paratha shop.
Officials inspected food preparation methods and practices, and collected samples to check the quality and safety of ingredients, including spices, colours and other additives. Raids were carried out to examine if vendors were selling food items in accordance with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines.
The viral 'Pocket Paratha' seller, popularly known as Raju Da, came under the scanner of food safety officials as they raided his stall outside NRS Medical College and Hospital. During the inspection, Raju Da failed to produce a valid licence for selling food. The team also inspected several other food stalls around Sealdah station as part of a wider food safety drive.
The officials tested hot samosas, ghugni and other prepared food items from several stalls. Items found below the required quality standards were discarded. Officials also checked spices using chemical tests to detect possible adulteration.
Raju Da's 'Pocket Paratha' stall passed the food quality checks. However, officials issued certain guidelines to the shop owner, asking him to obtain a food licence and improve sanitation and hygiene standards. Some food samples were also collected for further laboratory testing.
The civic body has been conducting similar inspections at food establishments across Kolkata to ensure that food sold to consumers meets prescribed safety and quality standards.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.