Maharashtra’s FDA Commissioner and IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe has totally changed the way restaurants and eateries operate in the state. Known as the real-life “Singham”, the officer takes no time in taking strict action against food safety violators. Now, he has himself shared four amazing tips customers should keep in mind before heading out for their meal at a restaurant.
Tukaram Mundhe Shares 4 Tips For Eating Out At A Restaurant
Many of us often head out on weekends to a restaurant or for dinner to indulge in our favourite meal. But there are only a few people who also consider the hygiene of the place, the items they are serving on the menu or whether they are using fresh ingredients or not. But trust us, these things matter a lot for our safety and health.
Maharashtra’s FDA Commissioner and IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe recently shared a four-point checklist for eating out safely with NDTV. These four points will help you make healthier food choices and choose an ideal restaurant before heading out for a meal. Here’s what he shared.
1. Eat Only What Is Needed
This is one of the most important things, according to Tukaram Mundhe. He advised people to order food based on what their body needs instead of just relying on their cravings. According to him, people should avoid HFSS foods (high in fat, salt and sugar) or junk food. Once in a while is okay, but do not make it your daily choice.
2. Check Cleanliness And Sanitation
This is another thing you need to keep in mind before heading out to eat. In conversation with NDTV, Tukaram said that poor hygiene and sanitation can create conditions for cross-contamination, which can lead to problems like food poisoning. This is why the hygiene of a restaurant is very important. Before choosing a place to eat, take a quick look at its overall cleanliness and sanitation.
Also Read: After Tukaram Mundhe’s Action, Viral Video Shows Chicken Lollipops Without Artificial Colours
3. Check Whether The Outlet Is Licensed
Tukaram Mundhe also advised people to check whether the restaurant they are going to is licensed or registered or not. A licensed restaurant is expected to follow food safety rules and is probably safer to eat at. But according to him, it does not mean that every unlicensed restaurant will not follow the rules. However, diners should at least check. Plus, it is also mandatory for restaurants to display their licence in a place where it can be easily seen.
4. Choose An Age-Appropriate Diet
The FDA Commissioner believes that people should always consume an age-appropriate diet, whether at home or at a restaurant. This means that younger and older people can have different dietary requirements. A snack or meal that suits one person may not be right for someone else. Children and older adults should be more careful about highly processed foods and choose meals that suit their nutritional needs.
Also Read: Dirty Towels, Food From The Floor? Old Video On 5-Star Hotel Hygiene Resurfaces
We think Tukaram’s four-point checklist is something one can easily follow. It does not restrict us from enjoying our favourite foods but simply makes us more aware of our food choices. So, the next time you head out for a meal, keep these simple tips in mind!
Cover Image Courtesy: @mohitlaws/X
FAQs
Who is Tukaram Mundhe?
Tukaram Mundhe is an IAS officer and Maharashtra FDA Commissioner known for taking strict action on food safety issues.
What should you keep in mind while eating out at a restaurant?
Always check the restaurant’s hygiene, sanitation and license and make sure that you make a choice of ordering healthy food.
What are HFSS foods?
HFSS foods are foods high in fat, salt and sugar.