Report
A customer in Thrissur district in Kerala raised concerns about the lack of oversight in the food sector after receiving unsatisfactory portions at a local hotel. He filed complaints with both the Legal Metrology and Food Safety Departments but was informed that no legal action could be taken regarding the small portion sizes and pricing.
Disappointment Over Portion Size and Pricing
P.B. Satheesh, a regular customer at the Kodakara hotel, was disappointed when he received a masala dosa with only a small amount of masala at the edge, which he felt was smaller than usual. He paid Rs 74 for the meal, considering the price was too high for the portion size. He also found the puri, priced at Rs 74, to be the size of a crisp, which he found misleading. Frustrated, he filed complaints with the Legal Metrology and Food Safety Departments.
Department’s Response to the Complaint
The Legal Metrology Department responded that the Legal Metrology Act and associated regulations did not cover the amount, weight, or cost of food served in hotels. Satheesh felt this response was unjust, as he believed the smaller portions were unfair to customers. The Food Safety Department also declined to take action, stating that the issue fell outside its jurisdiction. Satheesh claims that despite bringing the matter to the supply office, they offered no solution.
IRCTC Sets an Example for Transparency in Pricing
In contrast, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has taken steps to ensure food pricing transparency. At the IRCTC Food Plaza at Ernakulam South Railway Station, they display the weight and cost of every item. For example, the masala dosa weighs 80 grams, with 80 grams of masala, 50 grams of chutney, and 50 grams of sambar, priced at Rs 90. According to guidelines, puri masala includes two puris weighing 30 grams each, along with 150 grams of masala, for a total cost of Rs 80.
Call for Statewide Regulation of Food Pricing Transparency
Satheesh has suggested that Kerala should implement statewide regulations for food pricing transparency, following the example set during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season. During that time, the Collector required food vendors in Pathanamthitta district to display the weight and price of food, and Satheesh believes this practice should extend to the entire state.
Source: Mathrubhumi