FSSAI Takes Action Against IRCTC Over Disturbing Video of Utensil Washing

FSSAI Responds to Alarming Video

New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a notice to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) after a concerning video surfaced on social media. The footage allegedly depicts utensils being washed in the toilet area of a train compartment, prompting the FSSAI to take immediate action.

The FSSAI has expressed that if the claims in the video are accurate, this practice is unacceptable as it poses a significant risk of food contamination. According to reports, the video, recorded by a passenger on train number 12223 – LTT ERS Duronto, shows catering staff or contractors associated with IRCTC washing utensils in unsanitary conditions. The food safety authority has requested a prompt response from IRCTC regarding this issue.

Washing utensils in toilet facilities is deemed highly inappropriate from a food safety standpoint, as it can lead to serious health risks, a source indicated. The FSSAI's regulations, specifically Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, mandate that food business operators uphold strict hygiene standards in processing, handling, and cleaning to prevent food contamination.

Earlier this month, the FSSAI also sought clarification from the quick-commerce company Blinkit due to consumer complaints about the quality of eggs sold on its platform, highlighting its proactive approach to addressing food safety concerns raised on social media.