The health wing of the Kochi Corporation served notices to around 30 wayside eateries that were found to be functioning under unhygienic conditions.

The action followed a joint inspection drive by the district Health department, Kochi Corporation and the Food Safety department at food outlets across the city. Two outlets were asked to down their shutters.

Corporation Health Officer G. Krishnakumar said inspections found that many outlets were using untreated tap water for cooking and food preparation. “None of the outlets inspected was using boiled water. Some were also operating in unhygienic conditions. We have shut down the outlets where serious violations were detected,” added Mr. Krishnakumar.

“Apart from this special drive, the Health department conducts routine inspections at eateries across the city, both randomly and in response to complaints,” said Mr. Krishnakumar.

District Medical Officer R. Shahirsha said regular inspections would continue. “With diarrhoeal diseases, including Shigella infection, being reported from various parts of the State, those involved in the preparation and distribution of food must strictly adhere to hygiene standards. People should consume only boiled drinking water and ensure that it is boiled for at least 20 minutes,” added Dr. Shahirsha.