Food safety officials seize and destroy 55–60 kg of biryani and chicken preparations during inspection
VIJAYAWADA | August 24, 2026
VIJAYAWADA: Vijayawada’s popular Eat Street has come under scrutiny after food-safety officials reportedly found the use of unauthorised artificial food colours in biryani rice and chicken preparations being sold at food stalls. The inspection was conducted on Sunday as part of intensified food-safety surveillance across the city.
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🔍 Food Safety Officials Inspect Around 25 Stalls
According to The Times of India, food-safety and municipal officials inspected around 25 food stalls at Eat Street. During the inspection, officials found several vendors using artificial food colours in biryani rice and different chicken preparations.
The affected food was immediately seized and destroyed.
⚠️ 55–60 Kg Food Destroyed
NTR District Assistant Food Controller B. Srinivas told The Times of India that approximately 55–60 kg of biryani rice and different chicken items were destroyed after hazardous artificial food colours were detected.
Officials warned that unauthorised artificial colours used to improve the appearance of food could pose health risks to consumers.
🧪 Why Officials Are Concerned
Food-safety authorities are particularly concerned about the use of unauthorised colours because consumers may not be aware that such additives are being used in their food.
Officials are now checking food establishments for:
- Proper kitchen hygiene
- Safe food preparation
- Appropriate food-storage practices
- Separation of raw and cooked food
- Prevention of stale or contaminated food being served
These checks are part of wider efforts to reduce the risk of food contamination and food-borne illnesses, particularly during the monsoon season.
🏪 Inspections to Expand Across Vijayawada
The inspection is not expected to remain limited to Eat Street. The municipal corporation and food-safety department have also launched an awareness campaign for food vendors and eateries.
Officials said inspections and awareness programmes would be extended to other food courts, roadside eateries and food establishments across Vijayawada in the coming days.
📢 Awareness Campaign for Food Vendors
Authorities are also educating food vendors about maintaining hygiene in kitchens and food-preparation areas. The objective is to prevent food-poisoning incidents and illnesses associated with stale, contaminated or improperly handled food.
📌 Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eat Street, Vijayawada |
| District | NTR District / Vijayawada |
| Inspection | Food Safety & Municipal Officials |
| Stalls checked | Around 25 |
| Food destroyed | Approximately 55–60 kg |
| Items affected | Biryani rice & chicken preparations |
| Issue | Unauthorised artificial food colours |
| Latest action | Food seized and destroyed |
| Further action | More inspections across Vijayawada |