Key Update 

Following a complaint from a parent, the food safety department conducted a surprise inspection at Heritage Experiential Learning School in Sector 64 in Gurgaon. Led by district food safety officer Dr. Ramesh Chauhan, the team discovered insects in the rice and detected a foul smell in other food items, raising immediate concerns about the kitchen’s cleanliness.

Inspectors Collect Samples for Testing

During the visit, inspectors collected samples of rice, wheat flour (atta), and dahi-vegetable raita and sent them to a laboratory for detailed analysis. The department also identified that the kitchen staff, employed by the contracted vendor M/s Tiffin Etc, lacked the required Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC), which is mandatory for maintaining hygiene under FSSAI rules.

School Rejects the Allegations

The school firmly denies the reported lapses. Bhawana Magon, the school’s spokesperson, stated that the inspectors did not point out any issues during the visit and described the kitchen as clean and well-maintained. She explained that the vendor’s team of 12 permanent staff members prepare meals on-site and serves them in a dedicated dining area. Magon also noted that while eating school meals remains optional, many staff members, including the principal and receptionists, regularly consume the same food.

She expressed frustration over the lack of official communication about the complaint or inspection findings, emphasising that the school provided all necessary documentation to the inspectors. Magon added that a follow-up meeting with the vendor also confirmed no problems.

Authorities Await Lab Results to Decide Next Steps

The food safety department awaits the lab results before deciding on further action. Officials stressed the importance of regular hygiene training and audits, as promoted through FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right School’ initiative, to ensure schools maintain safe food practices and prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

Source: The Times of India