Ahmedabad Bakery Slapped with Rs 25,000 Fine After Insects Found in Nankhatai
A popular bakery located on CG Road in Ahmedabad faced severe regulatory action after a local customer made a shocking discovery. On Thursday, the customer allegedly found insects in a batch of nankhatai, a traditional Indian shortbread biscuit. This disturbing find immediately prompted a formal complaint to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), triggering a swift response from health authorities.
Health Department Uncovers Multiple Hygiene Violations
Following the complaint, officials from the AMC health department conducted a thorough inspection of the establishment, identified as Beekay Bakers. The inspection revealed several significant hygiene violations that compromised food safety standards. As a direct result, the department issued a formal notice to the bakery and imposed a substantial penalty of Rs 25,000 for the lapses.
To ensure comprehensive analysis, health officials collected samples of the contaminated nankhatai, along with samples of coconut macaroons and almond coconut biscuits from the same bakery. All these samples have been sent to a certified food laboratory for detailed testing to determine the extent of contamination and potential health risks.
Part of a Major Citywide Food Safety Drive
This specific enforcement action was not an isolated incident. It coincided with a rigorous, broader citywide food safety enforcement drive conducted by the AMC health department from March 23 to March 26. Over this intensive four-day period, health teams inspected a total of 229 food units, including restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, across various neighborhoods in Ahmedabad.
The results of this widespread drive were stark. Authorities issued 85 formal notices to establishments found violating hygiene norms. In a significant move to protect public health, they also destroyed 144 kilograms of inedible, substandard food items and 138 litres of unfit liquids that were deemed unsafe for consumption.
Furthermore, as part of their proactive surveillance, officials collected 127 different food samples from these inspected units. These samples are now undergoing rigorous laboratory analysis to check for adulteration, contamination, and compliance with food safety regulations. The drive underscores the AMC's commitment to stringent food safety oversight in the city.
The incident at Beekay Bakers serves as a critical reminder to all food businesses in Ahmedabad to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspected food safety issues directly to the municipal health department to ensure prompt action and safeguard public health.
