Health checks expose poor hygiene in Malappuram restaurants - The HinduPublished - June 30, 2026 09:23 pm IST - MALAPPURAMA special inspection drive by the Health department has found poor hygiene in kitchens and backrooms of many hotels and restaurants in the district.The drive, titled Clean Shot Malappuram 2026, involved surprise inspections across the district. Officials found that several well-known establishments were operating in unhygienic conditions.The inspection showed that 33% of food handlers did not have mandatory health cards. It also found that items such as spices and mayonnaise were prepared in bulk up to a week in advance and stored in freezers.Officials said freezers were not being used properly. Raw meat and fish were often stored without proper sealing or temperature control. Many workers, including migrant staff, also lacked health cards. Regular water quality testing was not being done.Several hotels and restaurants were operating without valid local licences. Violations included non-compliance with the green protocol, direct discharge of wastewater into drains and poor waste management.Night street food stalls were found using banned plastic cups and plates. Health officials said establishments violating rules in the first phase of inspections were given warnings. In the next phase, the authorities will take action, including closure of units.Published - June 30, 2026 09:23 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }