Bengaluru: FSSAI Licencing To Now Be Applicable To Roadside Eateries; Here’s What This Means For Customers

Get ready for a cleaner, safer street food experience in Karnataka! The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is bringing roadside eateries under its licencing regime, ensuring they meet mandatory food safety standards. This move addresses long-standing concerns about hygiene practices at these popular food stalls.

FSSAI Licencing For Roadside Eateries

For years, roadside vendors have operated outside formal regulations. This lack of oversight has raised questions about the cleanliness of food preparation, storage, and handling. According to a report by Deccan Herald, The new licencing system aims to fix this by ensuring vendors adhere to legally mandated hygiene standards, promoting safer and healthier street food for everyone.

Previously, only established restaurants required FSSAI licences. Roadside stalls, however, fell under the “street vendor” category and weren’t subject to the same rules. This distinction is disappearing. The FSSAI is actively integrating these vendors into the system, bringing them under the umbrella of food safety regulations.

The transition won’t be immediate. Recognising the challenges, officials are proactively running awareness campaigns to educate roadside stall owners. These campaigns, which include Information Education Communication (IEC) activities, aim to make the licencing process clear and explain the benefits of following food safety protocols.

Also Read: 22% Of Pani Puri In Karnataka Fails To Meet FSSAI Quality Standards; Cancer-Causing Substances Found

Knowledge And Resources Provided To Vendors

The focus isn’t on shutting down vendors, but on improving their operations. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and resources, the FSSAI hopes to empower them to comply with the regulations. This collaborative approach will not only elevate food safety standards but also build trust and legitimacy for these vendors.

The new licensing system holds immense potential for both consumers and vendors. Customers can enjoy their favourite street food with greater peace of mind, knowing it has been prepared under hygienic conditions. Vendors, on the other hand, will benefit from increased trust and potentially higher customer footfall.

While there may be initial hurdles, the long-term impact of this initiative promises to be positive. With cleaner, safer street food, everyone wins. From the enthusiastic customer to the dedicated vendor, a new era of hygienic and delicious roadside eats is on the horizon.

Also Read: Delhi’s Food Vans & E-Food Carts To Get Permanent Licences To Generate More Revenue

This targeted approach can ensure a smoother transition and a wider acceptance of the new licencing system. Karnataka’s success in implementing these measures could serve as a model for other regions in India, paving the way for a nationwide improvement in street food safety.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons (Representative Image)