Overview

In a significant step forward for improving food safety and hygiene in Mumbai, Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), held an important meeting with Shri Bhushan Varsha Ashok Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and Dr K.H. Govindraj, IAS Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department. The meeting focused on implementing effective strategies to address food safety issues in India’s economic hub.

Enhancing Education for Food Workers

Recognizing the cultural and economic importance of street food in Mumbai, Shri Rao announced plans to enhance the Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) program. Over 8 lakh street food vendors and food business operators (FBOs) in the city have already been trained through this initiative. The CEO stressed the need to increase this number, particularly by focusing on educating street food vendors to improve hygiene practices throughout Mumbai’s vibrant food streets.

Launching ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ Vehicles

To combat food adulteration, FSSAI plans to introduce more mobile food testing vans, aptly named ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ (FSWs). These vehicles will enable immediate testing for adulteration, ensuring that the food consumed by Mumbaikars is safe and free from contaminants. This initiative aligns with FSSAI’s nationwide pre-festival monitoring campaign, reinforcing the commitment to food safety during peak demand periods.

Nutritious and Clean Food Avenues

Shri Rao discussed the potential creation of dedicated clean food streets in collaboration with the BMC. These food streets will allow street food vendors to operate under strict hygiene regulations, establishing safe, lively culinary hubs for both locals and visitors. Emphasizing the importance of early education in food safety, FSSAI is promoting the establishment of health clubs in schools across Mumbai. These clubs aim to encourage healthy eating practices and raise awareness about food safety among children, helping cultivate a health-conscious generation.

A Unified Perspective on Food Safety

The meeting underscored FSSAI’s commitment to collaborating with local authorities to preserve Mumbai’s vibrant culinary heritage while setting new standards for food safety and hygiene in India. These efforts will position Mumbai as a benchmark city for food safety, ensuring its residents and visitors can enjoy its diverse culinary offerings while adhering to health standards.

Source: Foodtech Network