Has FSSAI Trained Over 3 Lakh Street Food Vendors on Safe Food Practices?
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Synopsis
The FSSAI has made significant strides in food safety by training over 3 lakh street food vendors. This initiative not only aims to enhance food safety practices but also ensures better hygiene standards across the country. With programs like FoSTaC and mobile testing labs, the government is committed to improving food safety for all citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Over 3 lakh street food vendors trained in safe food practices.
- Implementation of the FoSTaC programme since 2017.
- Introduction of Mobile Food Testing Laboratories (MFTLs) nationwide.
- Certification of 405 Eat Right Street Food Hubs under the Eat Right India movement.
- Ongoing inspections and monitoring to uphold food safety standards.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance safe food practices across the nation, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has successfully trained over 3 lakh street food vendors, as disclosed by the government during a parliamentary session.
In a formal written statement in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, outlined the measures taken by the government to elevate food safety standards in India.
This includes the initiation of the Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) programme, which was launched in 2017.
“This programme provides essential training in food safety and standards for individuals involved in the street food sector, whether they are food business operators or their staff,” Jadhav elaborated.
“As part of FoSTaC, a specialized awareness course titled ‘Street Food Vending’ has been established. To date, over 3 lakh street food vendors nationwide have received training through this initiative,” the Minister emphasized.
Additionally, he noted that the government is enhancing street food safety through stringent inspections, awareness campaigns, and enforcement actions by the FSSAI.
“The FSSAI conducts ongoing surveillance, monitoring, inspection, and random sampling of food products to ensure compliance with the regulations set forth in the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and its associated rules,” Jadhav explained.
If food samples are deemed non-compliant, necessary penal actions are taken against the infringing Food Business Operators in accordance with the provisions of the FSS Act.
In parallel, the FSSAI is running a nationwide initiative named the ‘Eat Right India movement’ aimed at promoting food safety and hygiene for all citizens.
As part of this initiative, the FSSAI has created the Eat Right Street Food Hub certification programme to raise awareness regarding food safety and hygiene at food streets.
“Currently, there are 405 Eat Right Street Food Hubs certified under the Eat Right India initiative,” Jadhav reported.
To further extend outreach for immediate food testing and dissemination of food safety information in remote areas, the FSSAI has introduced Mobile Food Testing Laboratories (MFTLs) throughout all States and Union Territories.
“To date, the FSSAI has deployed 305 MFTLs across 35 States/UTs in India,” the Minister concluded.
Point of View
It is evident that the initiatives taken by the FSSAI reflect a strong commitment to enhancing food safety standards in India. By focusing on training street food vendors and implementing rigorous testing measures, the government is prioritizing public health and hygiene, which is crucial in a country where street food is integral to daily life.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FoSTaC programme?
The FoSTaC programme, launched by the FSSAI in 2017, provides training in food safety and standards for individuals involved in the street food business.
How many street food vendors have been trained?
Over 3 lakh street food vendors have been trained through the FSSAI's initiatives.
What is the Eat Right India movement?
The Eat Right India movement is a nationwide initiative by FSSAI aimed at ensuring food safety and hygiene for all citizens.
What are Mobile Food Testing Laboratories?
Mobile Food Testing Laboratories (MFTLs) are deployed by FSSAI to conduct on-the-spot food testing and provide food safety information, especially in remote areas.
How does the FSSAI ensure compliance with food safety standards?
The FSSAI conducts regular surveillance, inspection, and random sampling of food products to ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act.
