Adulterators get food for thought

KOCHI: The Association of Bakers in the city will join hands with the Kochi Corporation to prevent the use of harmful chemicals in food items during the  festival season.The association will extend its support to the civic body’s efforts to check the use of harmful colours in food items like banana chips and ‘Sarkkara Varatty’, which usually are in demand during Onam.“The Association representatives have informed us that they will carry out lightning inspections as part of the campaign against adulteration “ Kochi Corporation Health Standing Committee chairman T K Ashraf said. He said the officials of the Health Department would provide necessary support to the association in its efforts.“The health officials will take legal action against the violators,” he added.Ashraf said the civic body had also formed two special squads to monitor illegal practices in the food industry during the Onam season. The special squads will conduct inspections on a zonal basis.“The squads will conduct raids on bakeries, restaurants and hotels to make sure that only healthy food are being served. Wayside vendors selling banana chips will also come under scanner as we have received complaints that they are  reusing the oil,” Ashraf said.The Corporation will also take action against vendors who erect temporary stalls on footpaths and streets during the Onam season.The Kochi Corporation had earlier carried out raids on various hotels in the city. The civic body has imposed fine on four hotels and had served notices to two hospital canteens found selling stale food.“If these hotels are again found to be selling stale and unhygienic food, stringent action, including cancellation of their licenses, will be taken against them,” Ashraf said.