New Delhi: India, with its vast railway network transporting millions daily, is witnessing a transformative change in food safety standards across railway stations, thanks to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s Eat Right Station initiative. The initiative has now successfully certified 150 railway stations across the country, ensuring passengers access safe, hygienic, and nutritious food options, a substantial accomplishment in the progress of the Eat Right India movement.
The certification process for “Eat Right Station” involves comprehensive audits of food vendors, rigorous training for food handlers, strict adherence to hygiene and sanitation protocols, and awareness campaigns to guide individuals in making informed food choices. Railway stations that meet these stringent criteria are awarded the prestigious “Eat Right Station” certification.
Some of the notable railway stations that have earned the “Eat Right Station” certification include New Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, Ujjain, Ayodhya Cantt, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Kozhikode, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Vadodra, Mysuru City, Bhopal, Igatpuri, Anand Vihar Terminal in Delhi, and Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station in Chennai, among others from various states.
This initiative not only benefits passengers by providing safe and nutritious food but also empowers food vendors at railway stations. Adherence to food safety and hygiene standards enhances their credibility, attracting more customers and boosting their livelihoods.
In a pioneering move, six metro stations across the country have also joined the initiative and received accreditation as Eat Right Stations. Notable among them are Noida Sector 51, Esplanade in Kolkata, IIT Kanpur, Botanical Garden in Noida, and Noida Electronic City Metro Station.
FSSAI remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the “Eat Right Station” program further. The objective is to include all major railway stations and metro stations, ensuring every passenger enjoys safe and healthy food options throughout their journey. This nationwide effort is poised to contribute significantly to building a healthier India.