Telangana Food Safety Department Denies NCRB Report Misinterpretation

Hyderabad: The Telangana food safety department issued a detailed rejoinder following reports which it said painted Hyderabad “in a ‘negative light” with regard to food safety standards. The reports, widely circulated on online media platforms and highlighted by a Telugu daily, alleged that Hyderabad ranked last in food quality among 19 cities, citing the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

Commissioner of food safety R.V. Karnan refuted these claims and said that the NCRB report, released in December 2023, was misinterpreted. The report cited Hyderabad registering the highest number of cases — 246 — under IPC sections for food and drug adulteration. Karnan said that the data reflected crime statistics for 2022, and did not serve as a qualitative ranking of food safety standards.

Highlighting the measures undertaken by the food safety department, commissioner Karnan pointed to a robust strategy to enhance food quality and public health. Initiatives included surprise inspections by three dedicated task forces, special registration drives for street food vendors, and educational campaigns targeting 1,500 vendors across four districts.

“The department has also conducted focused audits of hospital canteens, hostels, and residential schools, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations,” he said, in a statement.

In light of these efforts, Karnan expressed optimism about the improving food safety landscape in Hyderabad and the state at large. He called for balanced reporting to reflect ongoing advancements and urged the media to disseminate accurate information.