Hotels Continue Selling Stored Food Despite Warnings, Raising Health Concerns

Despite repeated warnings from authorities, several hotels in the city continue to sell stored and reheated food, raising serious health concerns for diners.

Inspections by the Food Safety and Standards Department in early August found multiple hotels keeping prepared food for days before serving it. Notices were issued and cases registered, but many establishments have reportedly not changed their practices.

On Friday, Food Inspector GV Apparao conducted a surprise check at “Aha Yemi Ruchulu” Restaurant in MVP Colony, uncovering 85 kg of stored items, including chicken biryani, noodles, chicken lollipops, fried rice, boiled eggs, Apollo fish, and manchuria. Some items had developed a foul smell yet were being reheated and served. Officials also found 20 kg of moldy gravy emitting a strong odour. Managers admitted the food had been stored for two days. Samples were collected for testing, and a case was registered.

“The practice of cooking in bulk, reheating leftovers, and selling them has become routine in many hotels,” Apparao told The Coastal Times. “Unhygienic kitchens and the use of harmful dyes or chemicals to enhance flavour and colour can pose serious health risks.”

Dr. Priya Reddy, a public health expert, warned, “Consuming stored or improperly reheated food can lead to foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli infections. Authorities must ensure strict compliance through regular inspections.”

Local diners expressed shock. Ramesh Kumar said, “We trust hotels to maintain hygiene. It’s alarming to know food stored for days is still being served.” Anitha Devi added, “Stricter enforcement and harsher penalties are needed. Public health cannot be compromised for profit.”

Authorities have urged consumers to exercise caution and warned hotel managers that non-compliance with food safety norms could invite severe legal action.