Udupi: Surprise raids uncover unhealthy practices in Malpe beach eateries

Team Udayavani, Dec 15, 2023, 2:40 PM IST

In response to public complaints regarding the use of artificial coloring and harmful chemicals in fish dishes, a team of city municipality officials, led by the municipal commissioner, conducted surprise raids on over 20 shops near Malpe Beach.

Malpe Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and a hotspot for tourists, offers a variety of fish dishes through its numerous eateries. However, concerns raised by both locals and tourists about the potential use of harmful additives prompted the Deputy Commissioner (DC) to take action.

The DC instructed the municipality commissioner, along with the secretary of the Beach Development Committee, to investigate the reported malpractices. Commissioner Rayappa, accompanied by municipality officials, conducted surprise inspections on the shops and hotels in question.

The inspection revealed that certain establishments were using harmful chemicals to enhance the flavor of their fish and chicken dishes. In response, Commissioner Rayappa issued a stern warning to the owners, explicitly prohibiting the use of artificial colors and flavor enhancers in their culinary preparations moving forward.