Deputy Mayor Atin Ghosh to ensure food quality at stalls during Puja

Kolkata's Deputy Mayor Atin Ghosh will inspect the quality of food items at various food stalls and restaurants throughout the city on Panchami day to safeguard public health during the Puja festivities. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation's food safety department to maintain hygiene standards during one of the busiest times of the year when streets are lined with food vendors offering an array of dishes.

As the city embraces the festive spirit, food vendors will provide a tempting selection, including rolls, chowmein, dosas, and momos. The influx of visitors indulging in these culinary delights raises concerns about food safety. With many people enjoying food while visiting the Puja pandals, it is crucial that all food stalls maintain cleanliness. Deputy Mayor Ghosh, along with the food safety team, will specifically check the types of cooking oil used by these vendors to ensure they meet safety standards.

On Panchami day, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation plans to conduct a targeted campaign in South Kolkata. While specific areas for inspection have not been disclosed to maintain the element of surprise, this campaign aims to uphold food safety standards during the festive season when the risk of food adulteration is heightened. The municipality has been actively running campaigns throughout the year to prevent such issues, intensifying efforts during festivals to ensure public health.

Food safety officers will inspect not only food stalls but also hotels and restaurants located in the pandal areas during the Puja days. To enhance the efficiency of these inspections, mobile laboratories will be deployed on the streets, allowing for immediate testing of food samples and assessments of cooking water quality used by vendors.