Food Safety Regulator Takes Action Against IRCTC Over Concerns Over Toilet Sanitation Practices

Food Safety Concerns on Indian Railways

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken suo motu cognizance of a video posted on a social media platform that shows utensils being washed inside the toilet area of a train compartment. According to sources, the FSSAI has issued a notice to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) citing this video, which appears to show catering staff or contractual persons engaged by IRCTC washing utensils in the train toilet premises.

The video, reportedly taken by a passenger on the 12223 - LTT ERS Duronto train, has raised serious concerns about food safety and hygiene on Indian Railways. FSSAI has sought a reply from IRCTC on this matter at the earliest, as washing utensils in toilet areas poses significant risks of contamination.

Under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, food business operators, including IRCTC, are required to maintain hygienic practices to prevent contamination of food and food contact surfaces. The FSSAI's action in this case is a reminder of the importance of adhering to these regulations to ensure public health and safety.

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It is worth noting that this is not the first instance of FSSAI taking suo motu cognizance of consumer complaints on social media platforms. Earlier this month, the FSSAI had sought an explanation from quick-commerce player Blinkit regarding consumer complaints about the sale of poor-quality eggs on its platform.