Karnataka has stepped up its food safety enforcement efforts with expanded inspections across the state and the launch of a QR code-based complaint system that will allow consumers to directly report food and drug safety violations.
State Minister U T Khader said the QR code would be displayed outside hotels and other public places and would also be circulated through social media. Citizens will be able to scan the code and report concerns related to food safety, pharmacies, drugs and other violations directly to the department.
Khader said the initiative is aimed at making the complaint process quicker and more accessible. Since officials cannot be present at every establishment, public participation could help the department identify violations and respond faster. He claimed Karnataka was the first state to introduce such a mechanism.
The government also plans to introduce a toll-free number and dedicated call centre. Complaints received through the system would be passed to designated teams for inspection and necessary action.
As part of the intensified enforcement drive, the department has formed 30 inspection teams comprising officials from different districts. Recent inspections covered 63 three-star and five-star hotels, eight warehouses, four international restaurant outlets within BBMP limits and 30 food business operators.
The inspection drive also covered quick-commerce and food-delivery operations such as Zepto and Zomato, along with multinational restaurant chains including KFC, McDonald’s, Domino’s and Burger King, besides pubs and other food establishments.
The scope of inspections will now be widened further to include hostels, educational institutions, railway canteens, flight catering services and other establishments where food is prepared or served.
Khader emphasised that the objective of the inspections is not simply to penalise businesses or shut down establishments. The department, he said, wants food business operators to understand deficiencies, correct their practices and comply with required safety standards.
The initiative is also intended to increase consumer awareness. The minister urged people not to take food safety for granted and to pay greater attention to hygiene and safety standards when eating outside their homes.
Khader also felicitated Food Safety and Drug Administration Com.