TG SAFE warns consumers against unsafe pheni, khara ahead of Dasara

TG SAFE has urged consumers to exercise caution while buying pheni, khara and other snacks ahead of Dasara. Inspections of 12 units in the CURE area led to seizures, sample collection and action against establishments over reported food safety violations.

HYDERABAD: The Telangana food safety wing, TG SAFE, has advised the public to be cautious while purchasing pheni, khara and other snacks after safety violations, including unhygienic preparation conditions and suspected adulteration, came to light during a recent enforcement drive.

With sweet sales already picking up ahead of Dasara, officials have urged consumers to exercise caution while buying sweets and traditional snacks, including pheni. They have advised the public to purchase products only from licensed establishments, check their freshness and quality, and avoid items stored in unhygienic conditions.

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In one of the cases, on October 8, officials inspected 12 pheni and khara manufacturing units in the CURE area as part of a food safety drive. The inspections led to action against several establishments. Officials seized 1,950 kg of pheni worth Rs 2.30 lakh over labelling violations and quality concerns. Twelve samples were collected for examination over suspected adulteration, while contaminated food was discarded. Several establishments faced licence suspension, while units operating without valid licences were ordered to shut down.

In another case, on September 16, Balaji Pheni and Namkeen in LB Nagar faced action over unhygienic food preparation conditions. The cases have highlighted the need for strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards in the manufacture and sale of popular snacks.

Officials have advised consumers to check packaging, manufacturing and expiry dates, ingredient details and mandatory labelling information before purchasing packaged food. They should avoid products that appear discoloured, have an unusual smell or show signs of contamination, and refrain from buying unpackaged snacks from unhygienic premises.