Odisha’s Rayagada Mall Fined Rs 1 Lakh for Selling Expired Food Items

Bhubaneswar: A shopping mall in Odisha’s Rayagada district has been slapped with a fine of Rs 1 lakh after a surprise inspection revealed expired food items on sale. The raid was conducted by a three-member team from the Food Safety Department, led by the District Food Safety Officer.

During the inspection, officials seized expired packets of bhujiya and unsealed pickle bottles, raising serious concerns about food safety and consumer health. The raid was reportedly prompted by complaints that the mall had been selling expired products for several months.

The Food Safety Department confirmed that the mall was found in violation of multiple provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, prompting immediate punitive action.

Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against all businesses found compromising public health. Consumers are also urged to check expiry dates before purchasing packaged food items.

This incident has sparked public outrage, with many demanding tighter surveillance and routine checks to prevent such negligence.