Karnataka is introducing a QR code-based complaint system that will allow consumers to report food safety and drug-related violations directly to authorities.
Health Minister U T Khader announced the initiative on August 17, saying QR codes will be displayed outside hotels and pharmacies. Consumers will be able to scan the code and submit complaints on the spot. Karnataka has described the system as the first of its kind in the country.
The move comes as the state’s Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) intensifies inspections following complaints about food quality, hygiene and safety violations.
The QR code-based system is being developed to make it easier for consumers to bring violations directly to the department’s notice.
For food-related complaints, consumers will be able to flag concerns involving hotels, restaurants, street-food vendors and other food establishments. Reportable issues include poor hygiene and sanitation, food safety violations and the use of artificial colours.
The QR code initiative shifts some of the responsibility for identifying violations towards consumers, giving them a direct channel to authorities while they are at or near an establishment. The approach is particularly relevant as the state’s food safety inspections expand across different categories of food businesses and public-facing establishments.
FAQs
- What is Karnataka’s new QR code system?
It is a digital complaint mechanism that allows consumers to scan QR codes and report food safety, hygiene and certain drug-related violations directly to authorities. - Where will the QR codes be displayed?
The QR codes will be displayed outside hotels and pharmacies, allowing consumers to access the complaint system directly. - What food-related complaints can consumers report?
Consumers can report issues such as poor hygiene and sanitation, food safety violations and concerns involving food establishments.
