Kerala ice-cream factory shut down after employee filmed licking ice-sticks before packaging

The vendor was filmed licking each popsicle. (Representational)

An ice-cream manufacturing unit in Kozhikode, Kerala, was shut down after footage surfaced of an employee licking ice-sticks before packaging. The disturbing video, which quickly went viral on social media, has sparked outrage among locals and raised concerns about food safety standards.

The establishment, named Ice Me, located in Ambalapara, found itself at the centre of a scandal when Sajith, a Mangad resident, filmed an employee licking ice-sticks meant for packaging. Sajith, who had gone to buy ice, recorded the act and shared it online. The video not only prompted widespread condemnation but also triggered action from local authorities.

The video is going viral on social media:

Kerala: Popsicle Vendor Rasheed Licks Each Treat Before Packaging, Shop Shut Down By Authorities After Video Goes Viral. pic.twitter.com/lUr4aFnWLR

Times Yug (@TimesYug) November 22, 2024

Following complaints from locals, the police intervened, locking down the unit and suspending its food safety registration. Samples from the factory were collected and sent to the Malappuram Regional Analytical Lab for examination. The Koduvally police detained the man as part of the investigation.

Amid rising concerns over the spread of diseases like yellow fever, the health department has intensified its inspections of food vendors across the region. In recent days, old and contaminated ice stocks have been confiscated, and outdated refrigerators have been cleared from several establishments. Authorities also carried out inspections along the Kozhikode waterfront, a popular area for food vendors.