Significant Update

After a brief slowdown caused by unseasonal rain, sales of summer drinks such as tender coconuts, ice apples, and fresh fruit juices have picked up again across Madurai. With temperatures hovering between 34°C and 35°C, roadside refreshment stalls are witnessing increased footfall once again. However, residents have raised concerns over hygiene and food safety practices followed by some vendors.

Hygiene Concerns at Roadside Stalls

Residents have urged authorities to strengthen inspections at roadside stalls, especially during summer when the demand for fresh juices and cut fruits rises sharply. Food safety experts warn that improper handling of fruits, use of contaminated water, poor waste disposal, and unhygienic storage conditions can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses during hot weather. Exposure of cut fruits and juices to dust, insects, and direct sunlight can also affect food quality and safety. Consumers are generally advised to purchase beverages and cut fruits only from vendors who maintain proper cleanliness, use safe water, and store ingredients hygienically.

Supply Shortage and Rising Prices

Tender coconut vendors said they are increasingly sourcing coconuts from Pollachi and nearby districts due to reduced local availability. Traders noted that local production has declined this season, while demand continues to rise with increasing temperatures. Depending on size, tender coconuts are currently sold between ₹50 and ₹80. Fruit traders also reported a sharp increase in lemon prices due to strong summer demand and reduced supply. Farmers attributed the shortage to pest attacks and poor rainfall, which affected tender coconut and lemon production in parts of southern Tamil Nadu.

Calls for Regular Food Safety Monitoring

Residents said roadside stalls remain popular during summer because they offer quick and affordable refreshments. However, they stressed that regular monitoring by food safety authorities is necessary to ensure hygiene standards and protect public health.

Source: The New Indian Express