Hyderabad's iconic Shadab hotel loses food safety licence over violations

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the food business licence of Shadab, a landmark hotel in Hyderabad's old city, after investigators identified multiple food safety violations during inspections. The suspension follows what regulatory authorities described as serious lapses in maintaining hygiene and safety standards required for food service operations.

Shadab has long been considered an integral part of Hyderabad's culinary heritage, known particularly for its traditional Hyderabadi cuisine and biryani preparations. The suspension represents a notable regulatory intervention in the hospitality sector, highlighting the FSSAI's enforcement of compliance across establishments regardless of their historical prominence or market position.

While specific details of the violations remain under FSSAI review, food safety suspensions typically stem from deficiencies in areas such as sanitation practices, food storage protocols, pest management, or documentation of food sourcing and preparation procedures. The hotel will be required to address identified shortcomings and obtain clearance from regulatory inspectors before its licence can be reinstated.

The action underscores ongoing FSSAI efforts to maintain food safety standards across India's hospitality and food service sectors. Establishments facing licence suspension have the opportunity to appeal the decision and submit evidence of corrective measures undertaken to comply with regulatory requirements.