Food safety team raids eateries in Gumla and Palkot, finds industrial-grade chemicals and non-edible colours

Gumla: Ahead of Diwali and the upcoming Chhath festival, the Gumla district administration and Food Safety Department have intensified inspections to curb food adulteration and the sale of substandard food products. During surprise raids at eateries and food establishments in Gumla and Palkot, officials detected serious violations, including the use of expired ingredients, industrial-grade hydro and non-edible colours.

The inspection drive was conducted by a team led by Food Safety Officers Asha Raj, Kumar Prabhakar and Rijjwal Pandey. The team visited hotels, roadside eateries, catering units, sweet shops and grocery establishments across the two areas. The sudden inspections kept local food business operators on alert throughout the day.

At Yashraj Dhaba in Palkot, inspectors found inadequate cleanliness and observed that employees were not wearing essential protective gear such as aprons, headgear and gloves. The establishment was also operating without a valid food licence.

A more serious violation was detected during the inspection of Banshidhar Hotel, where expired ingredients, prohibited industrial-grade hydro and non-edible colours were allegedly being used. The authorities imposed an immediate fine on the operator and issued a stern warning. Around seven kilograms of contaminated laddoos were seized and destroyed on the spot. A sample of gaja was also collected, sealed and sent to a laboratory for quality testing.

At Prajapati Hotel, the team found that the business was operating without a food licence. The owner was directed to obtain the required licence promptly and ensure that employees wear aprons, gloves and headgear while maintaining proper hygiene.

Inspections were also carried out at Sonali Sweets and Chinese Food and Gupta Hotel. Their operators were instructed to strictly follow cleanliness requirements and kitchen safety protocols. The team also inspected Siwan Chaat Bhandar as part of the drive.

Food safety officials warned that all food businesses across Gumla district, including small shops, hotels, restaurants, dhabas and street vendors, must obtain valid registration or food licences without delay. They said violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act could invite strict legal action, heavy penalties and even the sealing of establishments.

The department clarified that the inspection drive would not be limited to the festive season and would continue across the district in the coming days.

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