Karnataka High Court flags growing expired food menace, calls for constant vigil

The High Court of Karnataka has flagged a growing menace of expired food in hotels and eateries, urging constant vigilance. Justice M. Nagaprasanna emphasized that instances of serving expired food are not isolated violations, but indicative of a larger issue in the hospitality industry where profit motives may override consumer safety.

The court criticized this "disturbing malaise" where restaurant owners seem to be willing to risk public health for financial gains. The observations come in light of recent raids on establishments, uncovering schemes to relabel and resell expired items. The court stressed the need for rigorous checks, prompt disposal of unfit food, and severe penalties to prevent such malpractices.

It highlighted that customers trust establishments to serve safe and fresh food, and this trust is crucial for the industry. The court underlined that customers cannot be expected to check expiry dates or ingredient origins themselves, and thus, the burden of ensuring food safety lies heavily on the shoulders of the hospitality industry.