FSSAI Issues Notice to IRCTC Over Hygiene Concerns in Train Catering

FSSAI Takes Action Against IRCTC

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a notice to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) on Thursday. This action was prompted by a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows utensils being washed in the toilet area of a train compartment.

According to sources, the FSSAI deemed this behavior unacceptable, as it poses a risk of food contamination. The notice references the social media footage, which reportedly depicts the washing of utensils inside the train's restroom area.

The video, captured by a passenger, pertains to train number 12223 - LTT ERS Duronto. It suggests that the utensils were being cleaned by catering staff or contract workers hired by IRCTC.

FSSAI has requested a prompt response from IRCTC regarding this incident. A source indicated that washing utensils in restroom areas significantly increases the risk of contamination, making it extremely concerning from a food safety perspective.

Under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, food business operators are required to adhere to hygienic practices for processing, maintenance, washing, and cleaning to prevent food contamination.

Earlier this month, FSSAI also sought clarification from Blinkit, a rapid grocery delivery service, regarding complaints from consumers about the sale of poor-quality eggs on its platform. In that case, FSSAI had similarly taken notice of consumer complaints on social media.