Joint inspections at cinema theatres across Kerala have led to 26 cases. Officials also issued five show-cause notices and imposed fines of ₹62,000.
The figures come from the office of Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob. PTI carried the statement on October 10.
The Legal Metrology, Food Safety and Civil Supplies departments ran the checks together. This was the second phase of the drive.
Why theatres were checked
The checks followed complaints from moviegoers. They cited overcharging and short quantities of food. Some also said theatres had no drinking water or price lists.
The minister said the joint inspections will continue every month.
Officials covered theatres in Kozhikode, Kannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kollam, Palakkad, Malappuram and Thrissur.
What officials found
The biggest single fine was ₹25,000, in Ernakulam district.
At a theatre in Aluva, a ₹30 cup of tea reportedly held 130ml against a declared 210ml. A ₹120 popcorn pack weighed 16g against 50g.
Other theatres were caught with smaller shortfalls on popcorn and coffee. Some used electronic scales that had not been verified and stamped on time.
The Food Safety department also booked cases for unhygienic storage and incomplete labels. Lapsed licences and food handlers without medical certificates were flagged too.
Some theatres were told to display price lists. They were also told to keep drinking water where viewers can see it.
What this means for moviegoers
Snack prices at theatres are a frequent complaint, but few viewers check the weight. These checks show the declared quantity is not always what you get.
Packed food must carry its declared weight or volume. If it looks short, you can ask staff to weigh it.
Complaints can go to the Legal Metrology department. A missing price list is also worth reporting.
Why it matters now
October is a busy month at Kerala theatres. Big releases like Jailer 2, Titans and Udumbanchola Vision are due within days.
Bigger crowds mean more snack sales. Monthly checks should keep theatres on alert through the season.
We will follow up on whether the drive changes prices or portions.
Key details
Cases registered: 26
Show-cause notices: 5
Total fines: ₹62,000
Largest fine: ₹25,000, Ernakulam district
Departments: Legal Metrology, Food Safety, Civil Supplies
Next checks: Monthly, as per the minister
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