T’puram: District medical officer (DMO) emphasized strict adherence to food safety guidelines to ensure that festival grounds, fair venues and conference venues are transformed into healthy gathering places.In a statement issued by district health administration, it urged that only certified labs must conduct water testing. Organizers must verify the drinking water sources in designated festival areas have underwent chlorination. It also directed that cooking utensils be washed with clean water. Health cards should be available for all individuals handling food. Food preparation, storage, distribution, and serving should occur in clean areas. Oil used for frying and making snacks should be used only once. Cooking in open spaces was prohibited. Food should be stored in a covered area. DMO said that all food establishments must have FSSAI registration or licence from the food safety department. The establishments should display the food safety toll-free number 18004241125 visibly near the cash counter for consumers. All materials used for food preparation, including fruits and vegetables, should be washed in clean water. Organizers and institutions conducting food donations must adhere to the green protocol. Solid and liquid waste should be scientifically processed on the same day. The use of prohibited plastic products is not allowed.
