45 Shawarma Shops Ordered to Close

Rapid Summary:

• The Food Safety department in india has directed 45 shawarma-selling food businesses to shut down for violating mandatory special guidelines.
• A statewide inspection of 1,557 shawarma-selling units was conducted on August 5 and 6 by food safety officials.
• Following the inspection:

– 256 units received rectification notices.
– 263 units were issued compounding notices.

• Shawarma-making businesses must comply with specific hygiene and preparation standards, including:

– Prohibition on serving mayonnaise made with raw eggs.
– Guidelines regarding cleanliness of shawarma cones, tables, and preparation spaces.
– Food parcels must display the exact date and time when they were prepared.

• Businesses are required to have proper FSSAI license and registration.
• all food handlers working in these shops must possess valid health certificates.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

the crackdown by the Food Safety department reflects an intensified effort to enforce public health regulations concerning street foods like shawarma across India. This targeted action highlights growing awareness about potential risks linked to unsafe handling practices in small-scale or informal food businesses. Regulatory measures such as mandatory licensing, clearer labeling standards, prohibition of unsafe ingredients (e.g.,raw egg mayonnaise),and stricter hygiene requirements aim to ensure consumer safety while promoting compliance among sellers.The high number (519 units combined) of non-compliance cases out of the total inspected may suggest widespread gaps in awareness or capacity for meeting regulatory demands among these businesses. Moving forward,ongoing enforcement combined with expanded educational efforts could help bridge these gaps while elevating consumer trust in street foods-a thriving segment that supports urban employment.

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