Food safety officials shut PVR INOX juice counter in Bengaluru after viral video of used cups

Food safety officials have shut a beverage counter at the PVR INOX multiplex in Forum Mall, Konanakunte Cross, after a customer's video went viral, allegedly showing used disposable cups being collected and reused to serve drinks.

Karnataka food safety officials ordered the counter closed after finding violations of food safety rules, Health Minister UT Khader said on Thursday.

A notice was also issued to the establishment. Photographs shared by the minister showed the entrance taped off, with officials standing by holding the notice.

Khader said the department acted on a complaint about the cups being used to serve customers. Officials have not publicly said how many cups were involved or how long the practice may have continued.

The matter surfaced on social media a day earlier.

Our Health Department (@DHFWKA) Food Safety Officers have acted on a complaint about the cups used to serve juice to customers at PVR INOX, Forum Mall, Konanakunte Cross, Bengaluru. During the inspection, officers found violations of food safety regulations. A notice has been issued to the establishment, and its juice counter has been shut down. When it comes to food safety, the same rules apply to everyone, from big brands to small vendors. I urge all food businesses to strictly follow the rules and run their business with their customers' health in mind. Public health matters as much as business. If you notice unhygienic food, packaging or serving practices anywhere, scan the Food Safety QR code below and file your complaint. Every complaint will be looked into.

— UT Khader (@utkhader) November 5, 2026

On November 5, Instagram user Mithil Kumar shared a video allegedly showing used disposable beverage cups being collected and reused at the multiplex. 

The post also alleged that a soft drink was being served in a previously used paper cup.

The footage has been widely shared and drew sharp reactions online.

Its claims are allegations, and the findings of the inspection have not been released in detail.said how many cups were involved or how long the practice may have continued.

The mall responded quickly. Forum South Bengaluru's official Instagram account apologised and said the PVR team was looking into the matter.

In the reports I reviewed, there was no separate detailed statement from PVR INOX itself. Readers should treat that as unconfirmed until the company issues one.

Khader used the case to make a wider point. He said food safety rules apply equally to large brands and smaller food businesses.

A Kannada report adds that he warned all food operators to follow the rules strictly in the interest of customers' health. He said public health matters as much as doing business.