Kerala begins checks on multiplex food pricing after popcorn, water complaints

Joint inspection teams from the Legal Metrology, Civil Supplies, and Food Safety departments began checking movie theatre complexes in Kochi on Saturday morning, following public complaints about inflated prices for snacks and beverages, especially popcorn and bottled water.

The first inspection was carried out at the theatre complex in Central Square Mall. Officials said notices are being issued to complexes that failed to provide free drinking water, which is a mandatory requirement.

The drive follows a directive from the State government after repeated complaints about high food and beverage prices at cinema halls, said Santhosh N.C., Deputy Controller of the Legal Metrology Department, Ernakulam.

During the checks, officials weighed food items, particularly popcorn, to verify that consumers received the prescribed quantity. "We observed no irregularity in the quantity provided, and the prices are also displayed as per rule," Mr. Santhosh said. He added that the department does not have the authority to regulate prices and that inspections would continue across all theatre complexes in the coming days, with a report to be submitted to the government.

Ernakulam District Supplies Officer Shaji V.R. noted that the department had earlier received complaints about overcharging at theatre complexes. "Based on our inspection, we have found that popcorn and beverages are being priced five times more than open market rates," he said, adding that a litre of water was being sold for over ₹90 at these venues.

Officials said inspections are being conducted intensively in Ernakulam district, which has a higher concentration of multiplexes.