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Kerala Heatwave Sparks Crackdown on Juice Shops and Bottled Water Safety

In response to rising temperatures, Kerala's Food Safety Department has intensified inspections of juice shops and bottled water units to prevent contamination. Since March, over 3,600 inspections have been conducted, resulting in hundreds of notices to establishments for violations. Officials have specifically warned about the dangers of ice made from unsafe water and the rapid spoilage of food like shawarma in the heat. The public is advised to drink plenty of safe water, check bottle seals, and avoid food and drinks stored improperly in direct sunlight.

Key Points: Kerala Heatwave Triggers Food Safety Crackdown on Juice, Water

  • Statewide food safety inspections launched
  • 291 shops issued rectification notices
  • Contaminated ice flagged as major health risk
  • Public urged to check bottled water seals
2 min read

Heatwave in Kerala triggers crackdown on juice shops, bottled water quality

Kerala launches statewide inspections targeting juice shops and bottled water quality during heatwave. Health officials warn of contamination risks.

"Ice made from contaminated water can lead to serious illnesses - Food Safety Officials"

Thiruvananthapuram, April 18

With temperatures rising sharply across Kerala, the Food Safety Department has launched an intensified statewide inspection drive targeting juice shops, drinking water sources, and bottled water units.

Health Minister Veena George said the move aims to safeguard public health during the peak summer months, when the risk of contamination and food spoilage is significantly higher.

Since March 1, officials have conducted 3,641 inspections across districts.

As part of the enforcement action, 291 establishments were issued rectification notices for lapses, while 219 faced compounding notices for violations.

Authorities also collected 506 surveillance samples of juices, cool drinks, and soft drinks, along with 118 samples of drinking and bottled water.

In addition, 36 statutory samples were collected and two sub-standard samples were identified, prompting further scrutiny.

Inspection squads led by Food Safety Assistant Commissioners have been deployed across districts, covering a wide range of outlets, from roadside vendors to larger establishments.

Special attention is being given to food outlets selling items such as shawarma, which are particularly vulnerable to spoilage in hot conditions.

Officials have flagged the use of ice in juices as a major health risk during summer.

Ice made from contaminated water can lead to serious illnesses, and vendors have been strictly directed to use only clean, safe water for ice production.

The department has also warned that food items can spoil quickly in high temperatures and must be stored in hygienic, covered conditions.

Packed food should carry clear labels indicating the date and time of preparation, and consumers are advised to avoid eating food that has exceeded its safe consumption period.

The Minister urged the public to remain vigilant, stressing that people should drink plenty of water even if they do not feel thirsty and ensure that it is clean and safe.

Boiled and cooled water is recommended, especially during travel.

Authorities have also cautioned against the sale of unapproved or counterfeit bottled water, warning of strict action under the Food Safety Act. Consumers are advised to check that bottle seals are intact and avoid purchasing water or soft drinks exposed to direct sunlight.

Improper storage and transportation of bottled beverages, especially in heat, can pose serious health risks, officials said.

The inspection drive is set to continue in the coming weeks as part of efforts to ensure food and water safety during the summer season.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good step by the government. But what about the root cause? The heatwave is getting worse every year. We need long-term solutions for climate change alongside these safety checks.
A
Aman W
Shawarma warning is spot on! It's a popular fast food but spoils so quickly in this heat. People should be careful. Always check the place's hygiene before ordering.
S
Sarah B
As a tourist who loves Kerala, this is reassuring to read. Food safety is crucial, especially for visitors. I'll definitely be checking bottle seals from now on.
V
Vikram M
While I appreciate the effort, I hope this doesn't become a tool for harassment of small vendors. The focus should be on education and support to improve standards, not just penalties.
K
Kavya N
The advice to drink boiled and cooled water is basic but so important. In this heat, dehydration is a silent threat. Stay safe and hydrated, everyone!

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