Food Safety Raids Bengal: Popular Restaurants Found Using Toxic Colors

Published: September 5, 2026 · Source: Hindustan Times

In a major food safety crackdown across Bengal's various districts, authorities uncovered widespread violations in restaurants and sweet shops that pose serious health risks to consumers. The food department's surprise inspections revealed a disturbing picture of negligence and malpractice, including spoiled fish and meat, expired food products, and the use of toxic artificial colors in food items. The kitchens and refrigerators of several establishments were found in extremely unhygienic conditions, raising serious concerns about public health standards in the state's food industry. The most prominent case to emerge from these raids was Barbecue Nation, located in Kolkata's Sector 5 area. Inspectors discovered a large quantity of spoiled food, insect infestations in the kitchen areas, and overall unsanitary conditions that were deemed hazardous to health. Following these findings, the restaurant's operating license was immediately revoked and the establishment was ordered to shut down. This high-profile case has sent shockwaves through the dining industry and prompted calls for stricter enforcement of food safety regulations. The drive, conducted by food safety officials across multiple districts, targeted both renowned restaurant chains and local eateries. Beyond the Barbecue Nation incident, inspectors found expired food products being served to customers, contaminated ingredients in food preparation, and unsanitary storage conditions. The use of harmful artificial dyes in sweets and other food items was also documented at various locations. These findings highlight a systemic failure in food quality oversight and have sparked outrage among consumers who trust these establishments with their meals. Health experts have warned that consumption of such contaminated food can lead to severe gastrointestinal diseases, allergic reactions, and long-term health complications. The food department has announced plans to intensify surveillance and conduct more frequent unannounced inspections to prevent such violations. Consumers are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious food preparation practices to the relevant authorities. The state government faces mounting pressure to implement stricter punishments for food adulteration and ensure the safety of its citizens.

Key Highlights

• Bengal food department raids uncover widespread violations in restaurants and sweet shops across multiple districts
• Barbecue Nation Kolkata's license cancelled after inspectors found spoiled food and insect infestations in the kitchen
• Authorities discovered expired food products, toxic artificial colors, and extremely unhygienic kitchen conditions
• Health experts warn of severe health risks including gastrointestinal diseases from consuming contaminated food
• Food department announces intensified surveillance and more frequent unannounced inspections to prevent future violations

Source: Hindustan Times

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food safetyBengal restaurantsfood adulterationBarbecue Nationhealth violationsKolkatafood department raids