FDA Cracks Down on Unhygienic Food Units in Salcete Taluka, Orders Shutdowns

FDA Cracks Down on Unhygienic Food Units in Salcete Taluka, Orders Shutdowns

Salcete, Goa – April 29, 2025:
The South Goa team of the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) launched a rigorous inspection drive in Salcete Taluka, targeting food business operators (FBOs) to ensure adherence to hygiene and food safety norms. During the operation, two food manufacturing units and one restaurant were found to be operating in gross violation of sanitary regulations and were ordered to shut down immediately until compliance is achieved.

The inspections were spearheaded by Designated Officer Smt. Sanjyot Kudalkar (South Goa), accompanied by Food Safety Officials Shri Madhav Kavlekar, Miss Pradiksha Chopdekar, and Shri Amardeep Gaude. Their efforts aimed to uphold food safety and protect public health amid rising concerns over unhygienic practices.

Bakery Ordered to Cease Operations
The first inspection was carried out at a bakery unit that was operating in deplorable conditions. Officials found no proper washing facilities, dirty and flaking floors, exposed and unsafe electrical wiring, and contaminated storage trays. The bakery failed to produce mandatory sanitary cards for its workers or a pest control certificate. Given the severity of the violations, the FBO was ordered to cease all operations and submit a compliance report to the FDA.

Illegal Chips Manufacturing Unit Busted
The second unit, engaged in chips production, was found cooking food directly on the footpath without basic hygiene measures such as washing and exhaust systems. The unit had no valid license to operate, despite earlier warnings from the FDA. Moreover, all packaged food items lacked labeling as mandated by law. Food products worth ₹20,000 were seized and marked for destruction. The FBO was issued a stop-business notice and was warned not to resume operations until valid licenses and compliance documents are furnished.

Restaurant in Margao Market Under Scrutiny
A surprise inspection was also carried out at a restaurant located in the bustling Margao market. Officials noted broken floor tiles, soot-covered kitchen walls, a non-functional exhaust system, an open toilet in the premises, and the absence of pest control or sanitation records. The restaurant was directed to suspend operations immediately and carry out all necessary rectifications before reopening.

The FDA team has reiterated its commitment to upholding food safety standards and emphasized that similar inspections will continue in the coming weeks to ensure compliance across the region.