People in different parts of Odisha are now thronging various temporary kiosks selling traditional lassi and other cold drinks to beat the summer heat.
In view of the high demand for such traditional drinks during the summer season, the health wing of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) on Tuesday conducted a surprise inspection of such kiosks to check the quality of items being used in the preparation of lassi and other drinks.
During the inspection, the team found certain lapses which might adversely impact the health of those consuming such traditional drinks at the stalls.
Food Safety Officer, Pratiksha Dasmohapatra said, “The ice and curd were stored in unhygienic conditions. We also found the use of certain chemicals which were specifically meant for industrial purposes. This might pose certain health hazards. Many traders were unaware of such chemical agents.”
The CMC health squad conducted raids at multiple shops selling lassi and other summer drinks in different parts of the city including at Dolmundai Chhak today. Apart from the lassi stalls, the squad also conducted inspection of items, raw materials used by various fast food units in the city.
The adulterated food items were subsequently seized and destroyed by the CMC squad.
Dr Satyabrata Mohapatra, City Health Officer-Cum-Designated Food Officer of CMC said, “People are paying Rs 40 to Rs 80 for a glass of lassi or sarbat. The aim of today's drive is to ensure that traders sell genuine and healthy products.”
According to Mohapatra, the curd that was being used in some stalls was not of good quality and it had fermented. “We have warned that if the traders do not register with CMC within seven days, we will start sealing such units,” he added.