PANAJI: Three canteens serving government offices in Goa have been ordered to stop operations after a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspection found serious structural deficiencies and poor kitchen hygiene, state health minister Vishwajit Rane said on Thursday.The action followed a surveillance drive covering canteens and eateries operating in and around office establishments in Porvorim, North Goa.Four establishments were inspected during the drive, including three canteens serving government offices and a private restaurant, Rane said in a post on X, sharing photographs of food quality and infrastructure at some of the establishments.“Three units were directed to stop operations after serious structural deficiencies and poor kitchen hygiene were observed. Compliance will be verified before operations are permitted to resume,” he said.Rane said the FDA would verify compliance before allowing the three canteens to reopen.“Ensuring safe and hygienic food for every Goan remains our priority,” the minister said.The FDA will now conduct a special enforcement drive covering canteens operating in both government and private institutions across Goa, Rane said.He also urged canteen contractors to strictly follow prescribed food safety and hygiene standards, news agency PTI reported.“Safe food cannot be compromised, and our vigilance will continue,” Rane added.(With agency inputs)
