Patna: The Bihar Health Department has intensified inspections of food establishments across the state ahead of the festive season. During one such inspection, M/s Bansi Vihar restaurant on Fraser Road in Patna was found non-compliant with several food safety and hygiene requirements.
The inspection was conducted by food safety officials under the directions of Kumar Ravi, Secretary-cum-Food Safety Commissioner, Bihar. The exercise is part of the department’s ongoing campaign to ensure that consumers receive safe and quality food during the festive period.
Restaurant Scores 63 Out of 112
According to the inspection report, Bansi Vihar received 63 marks out of a total of 112, equivalent to 57 per cent.
The final inspection result was classified as Non-Compliance, with deficiencies identified across several food safety and hygiene parameters.
Shortcomings Found in Storage and Infrastructure
During the inspection, officials found deficiencies related to the proper storage of food products and packaging materials.
Issues were also identified concerning ventilation, suitability of equipment, floor condition, drinking-water records, and the condition of walls and ceilings.
The inspection also highlighted shortcomings in maintaining basic infrastructure and hygiene requirements necessary for safe food operations.
Hygiene Gaps Found in Food Handling
Officials found deficiencies in several areas related to food handling and cleanliness.
These included the cleaning of raw materials, food equipment, cutlery and crockery, as well as hygiene during the transportation and portioning of food.
The restaurant was also found lacking in the proper maintenance of records for incoming food materials and in the implementation of FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expired, First Out) systems.
These systems are intended to ensure that food products are appropriately rotated and used before their expiry.
Calibration and Pest Control Records Also Checked
The inspection found that measuring and monitoring equipment had not been calibrated within the prescribed period.
Officials directed the establishment to provide the required records, including a pest control certificate and other relevant documents.
The restaurant was also instructed to ensure that all required compliance records are properly maintained.
Personal Hygiene of Food Handlers Found Satisfactory
The personal hygiene arrangements for food handlers were found to be satisfactory during the inspection.
However, the restaurant was directed to submit records relating to the annual medical examination and vaccination of food handlers.
The requirement is aimed at ensuring that employees involved in food preparation and handling meet prescribed health and hygiene standards.
Restaurant Directed to Take Corrective Action
Following the inspection, the food business operator was directed to undertake necessary improvements within 14 days under the applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011 (FSSR, 2011) and Section IV requirements.
The establishment was also instructed to remain closed until the improvement notice is received and corrective compliance requirements are addressed.
Officials further directed the restaurant to strictly follow FIFO and FEFO procedures for the storage and use of food materials.
Bihar Steps Up Food Safety Inspections
The inspection at Bansi Vihar is part of a wider food safety monitoring drive being conducted across Bihar ahead of the festive season.
The Health Department said food establishments are being inspected regularly, while food samples are being collected and sent for laboratory testing wherever required.
Food safety officials are also checking compliance with hygiene, storage, handling and other prescribed standards.
Department Warns Food Businesses Against Violations
The department has reiterated that food businesses must strictly comply with food safety requirements and maintain proper hygiene at their establishments.
Food operators have been advised to ensure safe storage and handling of food products and provide consumers with safe and quality food.
The state-wide inspection, monitoring, sample collection and laboratory testing drive will continue, with action to be taken against establishments found violating food safety standards.
