Report

After a spate of food poisoning incidents that killed three people and hospitalised hundreds in Tenkasi and Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu health department has launched stricter checks and tougher enforcement to prevent more outbreaks. Every year, the state reports about 500–600 foodborne illness outbreaks, mostly linked to mass gatherings like weddings, temple feasts, and political events. Investigations show many organisers ignore basic food safety rules and hire untrained staff.

Key Issues

• Many caterers skip mandatory event licences.
• Temporary staff often lack FoSTaC food safety training.
• Poor food storage and unsafe drinking water frequently cause contamination.

What the Government is Doing

• Stepping Up Inspections: District health officials now check event venues, kitchens, water sources, and temporary stalls before and during functions.
• Enforcing Licensing: Officials insist organisers get proper licences and display them at venues. Violators face fines or even shutdowns.
• Raising Awareness: The Food Safety Department runs campaigns to train caterers, wedding halls, and the public on clean cooking and serving.
• Testing Samples: Regional and district labs test food and water from event sites to catch contamination early.
• Using Legal Powers: Health officers can stop any event if they find serious health risks, under the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act.

How You Can Stay Safe

Officials urge people to check whether event organisers have valid licences and trained staff. Guests should watch out for clean drinking water, proper food storage, and hygienic serving conditions at any gathering.

Source: The Federal