The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is intensifying its efforts to improve food safety among street vendors nationwide, according to FSSAI CEO G. Kamala Vardhana Rao. This move aims to ensure that the food served by vendors meets high safety and hygiene standards.

On Friday, a pivotal meeting was held in Mumbai, chaired by Bhushan Varsha Ashok Gagrani, Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM). The session brought together key figures from FSSAI and other senior officials to strategize on enhancing the safety of street food.

The meeting underscored the FSSAI’s commitment to elevating Mumbai’s street food scene to align with global safety and hygiene benchmarks. Central to the discussion was the proposal for establishing Healthy and Hygienic Food Streets (HHFS) in Mumbai, a concept designed to create dedicated zones where street food vendors adhere to rigorous safety standards.

FSSAI CEO Rao emphasized the importance of these training programs, stating, “By scaling up our training efforts, we aim to empower street vendors with the knowledge and practices necessary to serve safe and high-quality food. Our goal is to set new standards in food safety that benefit both vendors and consumers.”

The initiative reflects a broader strategy by the FSSAI to address food safety concerns in the street food sector, which is a vital part of India’s culinary landscape. By focusing on education and rigorous standards, the FSSAI seeks to improve public health and enhance consumer confidence in street food.

As the program unfolds, the development of HHFS in Mumbai is expected to serve as a model for other cities, demonstrating how improved practices can transform street food into a safe and enjoyable experience for all.