Kochi Authorities Plan Fresh Multiplex Inspections Over Food Sales

Authorities in Kochi are preparing another inspection drive at multiplexes in October following complaints about food overpricing. The planned action follows a joint inspection last month by the Legal Metrology, Civil Supplies and Food Safety departments at movie theatres in malls. Notices were served on establishments where officials found violations.

Rajesh Sam, Controller of Legal Metrology, said action would be taken against establishments engaging in malpractices, including serving inaccurate quantities of food. He said there was no legal provision for authorities to enforce fixed prices or require outlets to reduce their current prices. However, he said inspections would continue to ensure compliance with existing rules.

Sam said officials had found that some multiplexes provided less non-packaged food than the quantity specified. He added that action had been taken against erring outlets following inspections across the State. District Supply Officer Shaji V.R.

said all multiplexes in Ernakulam were being covered by the drive. Officials found that some venues did not provide enough free drinking-water counters, while others failed to display products with their prices and weights, he said. The inspections followed complaints from movie-goers about high food prices.

One visitor, Aparna Surendran, said popcorn at multiplexes could cost more than five times the open-market rate. Another, Anu Rajesh, said she avoided multiplexes because food and drinks were too expensive.