Kochi Multiplex Inspections to Continue in October Amid Food Overpricing Complaints

Inspections at multiplexes in Kochi set to continue in October

Authorities are preparing another inspection drive at multiplexes in October after joint checks found establishments violating rules amid complaints of food overpricing.

The inspections will continue even though officials cannot legally impose fixed prices on food items sold at these complexes.

Joint checks followed complaints

The previous drive was conducted at multiplexes located in malls by the Legal Metrology, Civil Supplies and Food Safety departments.

The checks followed complaints that food items were being sold at excessive prices, and notices were served on establishments found violating norms.

Rajesh Sam, Controller of Legal Metrology, Keralam, said action would be taken against establishments found engaging in malpractices, including serving inaccurate quantities of food.

Mr. Sam said food items were overpriced at the complexes, but there was no legal provision for officials to enforce fixed prices or require outlets to reduce their current prices.

He said inspections would continue to ensure that the outlets complied with the rules.

Mr. Sam added that action had already been taken against erring outlets after inspections at multiplexes across the State.

Quantity and display violations found

According to Mr. Sam, officials found that the quantity of non-packaged food items provided in some multiplexes was less than the specified quantity.

The inspection drive in Ernakulam is covering all multiplexes in the district, District Supply Officer Shaji V.R. said.

Mr. Shaji said some multiplexes did not provide free drinking water counters in adequate numbers.

He also said some establishments were found not displaying products along with their prices and weights.

Notices were served on the establishments found with these violations, Mr. Shaji added.

The findings have drawn attention not only to the prices charged at multiplexes but also to the quantity supplied and the information displayed for customers.

For movie-goers, the inspections have raised hopes of lower food prices at multiplexes.

“The prices of food items are on a par with those of movie tickets. For instance, popcorn at multiplexes can cost more than five times the open market rate,” said Aparna Surendran, a movie-goer.

Thrippunithura native Anu Rajesh said she avoided multiplexes because the prices of food items and drinks were exorbitant.

“I avoid going there and prefer smaller theatres,” Ms. Rajesh added.

The October drive is therefore expected to focus on continued compliance with rules, including accurate quantities, product price and weight displays, and the availability of free drinking water counters.

Source: The Hindu