Now scan this QR code to report unhygienic food, adulteration in Karnataka

The Karnataka government introduced a new QR code-based Integrated Public Grievance Redressal System (IPGRS) on Monday, empowering citizens to report unhygienic food, adulterated medicines, and other violations. Health Minister UT Khader unveiled the QR code, emphasizing it was the inaugural initiative of its kind in India and integrated with the government's Centre for E-governance. The QR code must be displayed in all food establishments and drug shops.

Residents can scan the code to lodge complaints about expired or overpriced medicines, unhygienic food outlets, and the use of artificial food colors. A recent surge in raids on eateries and drug stores across the state resulted in the seizure of expired and unsanitary food products. Khader assured that the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) would continue inspections, urging public cooperation to ensure hygienic food is served.

The government plans to engage experienced individuals and volunteers, especially those above 60, to report food and drug safety violations. FSDA officials collected 1,860 food samples from 629 Backward Classes hostels and 556 samples from 331 Social Welfare Department hostels. They inspected 889 food establishments in 186 bus stations, issuing notices and fines totalling Rs 55,000. Additionally, 11,370 food business operators underwent training under the Food Safety Training and Certification programme.

Statewide inspections and penal actions led to the seizing of expired meat and vegetables with fungus at 6 Bengaluru five-star hotels. Other violations included expired medicines, overpriced items, and establishments using artificial colors. The department conducted inspections at e-commerce food warehouses, milk and milk-product suppliers, and schools and colleges, seizing various non-compliant food items and imposing fines.