Food Safety Violations Detected at Three Establishments in Cyberabad

During recent inspections conducted by the Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC), significant food safety violations were detected at three establishments in Hyderabad. These inspections took place on July 3, 2026, and included a warehouse operated by Kwickbox Retail Private Limited in Gajularamaram, an Old Trees Cafe in Kandlakoya, Medchal, and the Baisakhi Family Dhaba in Kandlakoya, Medchal.

At the Instamart warehouse, which is managed by Kwickbox Retail Private Limited, inspectors discovered expired dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt smoothies, and paneer. These items were disposed of immediately. The inspection also highlighted inadequate storage practices, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian items being stored together, and a disorganized cold storage room. Additionally, medical fitness certificates for food handlers were missing, and inventory management practices like First In First Out (FIFO) and First Expiry First Out (FEFO) were not properly followed. The facility failed to maintain a designated area for expired or damaged food products and received a hygiene score of 76%.

Similarly, the Old Trees Cafe in Kandlakoya, Medchal, was found to have expired sweet sauce and yellow curry paste. The absence of medical fitness certificates for food handlers and a water analysis report for food preparation raised further concerns. Inspectors noted that dustbins lacked proper lids. The cafe received a hygiene score of 82%.

At Baisakhi Family Dhaba, inspectors found several lapses, including the absence of displayed FSSAI and trade licenses. Expired baby corn and black pepper masala were found and discarded. The restaurant also failed to maintain medical fitness, pest control, and water testing records. The kitchen was exposed to the outside environment, increasing contamination risks. Observations included open dustbins, unlabelled semi-prepared food items, and the use of synthetic food colors in Chinese dishes, all of which were discarded. Dead flies were discovered inside a refrigerator, and rusted iron knives were used for food preparation until they were replaced with food-grade stainless steel knives as instructed by officials. The establishment received a hygiene score of 63%.

These inspections underscore the ongoing challenges in maintaining food safety standards in the region, as highlighted by the CMC's findings.