Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Food and Drugs Administration Goa carried out a late-evening inspection drive at Colva Beach and Seraulim as part of efforts to ensure safe and hygienic food for the public.
According to FDA officials, multiple hawkers, food carts and eateries were inspected following concerns related to hygiene and food safety standards in the coastal belt.
At Colva Beach, inspection reports were issued to 14 hawkers for various deficiencies, including absence of mandatory health cards, unhygienic surroundings, improper attire, lack of covered dustbins and failure to display no-smoking boards.
Officials also inspected several ice cream carts operating in the area and found them largely compliant with hygiene and food safety norms.
During inspections in Seraulim, authorities observed repeated non-compliance by several food vending establishments. FDA officials imposed penalties amounting to Rs 18,000 on violators, while another retailer was fined Rs 2,000 during compliance verification checks.
Officials said serious lapses such as poor sanitation, improper food handling practices and lack of pest control measures were detected during the inspections.
All concerned food business operators have been directed to rectify the deficiencies and comply with prescribed norms within five days.
The FDA stated that strict monitoring and enforcement drives will continue across Goa to ensure safe food practices and hygienic public spaces.
