Kodagu food safety officials inspect hotels and bakeries after complaints

Food safety officials conducted surprise inspections of hotels and bakeries in several parts of Kodagu during September 2026, following complaints from members of the public, according to a statement issued by the department. The inspections covered establishments in Madikeri, Virajpet, Gonikoppal and Kushalnagar. Three hotels in Madikeri were inspected after complaints were received.

Notices were issued to the establishments, which were also instructed to maintain cleanliness. In Kushalnagar, officials collected 12 food samples for testing and served notices to six hotels. Seven bakeries and hotels were inspected in Gonikoppal and Virajpet, where notices were also issued.

Across the operations, 20 food samples were collected for laboratory testing. The statement said that six of the samples had originated in Kerala. The material did not specify the products tested or when the results would be available.

Designated Food Safety and Standards Authority of India official Anil Dhawan said all the inspected hotels and bakeries had been directed to maintain hygiene and provide clean drinking water. The establishments were also told to arrange medical examinations for food handlers, avoid the use of artificial colours in food products and comply with labelling requirements. The inspections and directions were issued as part of the department’s response to public complaints and concerns related to food safety.