Hyderabad: H-FAST Raids Chandrayangutta Eateries, Seizes Reused Oil and Coloured Chicken

Hyderabad's food safety task force, H-FAST, carried out a series of raids in the Chandrayangutta area on Saturday, targeting fast food centres suspected of using adulterated ingredients. Officials seized large quantities of reused cooking oil and chicken that had been artificially coloured to appear fresh.

Raids Target Popular Eateries

The operation focused on several outlets in the bustling locality, known for its high density of street food and quick-service restaurants. H-FAST teams inspected kitchens and storage areas, collecting samples for laboratory analysis.

According to sources, the reused oil was being stored in unmarked drums, while the coloured chicken was found in freezers, its unnatural hue immediately raising suspicion. Authorities have not yet disclosed the names of the establishments or the total quantity of seized items.

Health Hazards of Reused Oil and Coloured Meat

Repeatedly heating cooking oil leads to the formation of harmful compounds, including trans fats and aldehydes, which are linked to heart disease and cancer. The practice is banned under the Food Safety and Standards Act, but remains common in budget eateries looking to cut costs.

The use of artificial colours in raw chicken is equally dangerous. Synthetic dyes, often of industrial grade, can cause allergic reactions and long-term organ damage. H-FAST officials said the colour was likely applied to mask spoilage or make the meat look more appealing to customers.

Crackdown Intensifies in Hyderabad

Saturday's raids are part of a broader drive by H-FAST to clean up food adulteration in Hyderabad. In recent months, the task force has conducted surprise checks across the city, seizing everything from expired soft drinks to milk adulterated with detergent.

Officials said samples from the Chandrayangutta raid have been sent to state-run laboratories. Results are expected within a week. If found contaminated, the eateries face heavy fines and possible closure. Repeat offenders could even face criminal charges under the Food Safety Act.

The raids come amid growing public concern over food quality in Telangana. Consumer groups have been pushing for stricter enforcement and mandatory display of hygiene ratings at all food outlets.

H-FAST has urged citizens to report suspicious food practices through their helpline. The agency has promised swift action against any establishment found violating safety norms.

What happens next depends on the lab reports. If the seized oil and chicken are confirmed unsafe, the Chandrayangutta eateries could become the latest to be shut down in Hyderabad's ongoing war on adulteration.