Surprise inspections were conducted at eateries in Kochi jointly by the Health department, Food Safety department, Health wing of the Kochi Corporation, and the police on Saturday (July 18, 2026) evening. The Inspections were held at hotels, street-side stalls, and roadside eateries.
District Medical Officer Dr. R. Shahirsha said that inspections would continue in more areas in the following days. He added that punitive action would be taken against those who handle food items in a manner that leads to the spread of infectious diseases. All establishments involved in the preparation and handling of food and beverages must strictly adhere to the guidelines, he said in a communication.
The inspections were held at seven establishments in Kaloor and Kadavanthra. Drinking water samples were collected and sent for testing from six shops that didn’t have potable water quality test reports.
Fines were imposed on outlets where deficiencies were found. Penalties were levied against the outlets that were found to be operating without a license, lacked potable water quality test reports, or did not possess health cards. The special drive was conducted as a follow-up to the joint inspection held in June.
Published – July 18, 2026 09:51 pm IST
