Warangal, Sept.19 : Warangal District Gazetted Food Inspector Krishnamurthy and Food Safety Officer Mounika conducted surprise inspections at Zepto online marketing store in Kothawada, along with Red Bucket Biryani, Continental Bakery, and Grampus Bakery in Mandi Bazaar. The joint inspections were carried out following complaints lodged by consumer rights representatives Sambaraju Chakrapani, Mogilicherla Sudarshan, and Ravula Ranjit Kumar.
Consumer representatives raised serious concerns over deceptive packaging and unfair pricing practices. They pointed out that Swastik chili powder packaging carried the label “100% Natural,” which violates rules set by the Central Consumer Protection Authority. Furthermore, they highlighted how online ordering apps overcharge consumers, citing instances where egg puffs priced at ₹15 locally were sold online for ₹70, along with complaints regarding poor-quality flour (maida).
The delegation also brought to light unfair trade practices in biryani deliveries, where a small bucket biryani priced at ₹130 in-store was listed for ₹180 on delivery apps, in addition to extra platform fees. Consumers are facing both health risks and financial exploitation due to these misleading online pricing structures and sub-standard food ingredients.
Following the detailed complaints, Food Inspector Krishnamurthy and Food Safety Officer Mounika collected samples of Swastik brand chili powder for quality testing. Officials assured that necessary legal action will be taken based on laboratory reports and safety standard violations.
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