Kollam multiplexes flagged for food safety lapses, one operating without licence

Food Safety authorities in Keralam have flagged serious hygiene and operational lapses at two multiplexes in Kollam city, one located at Jerome Nagar and the other at RP Mall, following inspections at the premises.

At one of the establishments, inspectors found open ice cream containers kept in freezers, exposed to dust, hair and flies. Officials noted that leaving such ready-to-eat products uncovered also leaves them vulnerable to falling condensation. The management had also stored vegetarian and non-vegetarian items together in the same freezers without adequate separation.

The inspection team recovered expired milk packets from the freezers. While the establishment maintained that the packets were meant to be discarded, officials observed that they carried no proper labelling and had not been segregated as required under safety protocols. The management was told to dispose of the compromised stock immediately and to follow food-grade containment rules.

At the second multiplex, the violations were more serious, with the business found to be operating without a valid food safety licence.

The department said inspections will continue across commercial and entertainment hubs in the city to check substandard practices. Consumers have been urged to report irregularities, with authorities stressing that establishments charging premium rates are expected to maintain hygiene standards and comply with the law.