Vardhan launches 'food safety mitra' scheme for scaling up 'Eat Right India' movement

On the lines of 'arogya mitras', the government on Wednesday launched a scheme for engaging 'food safety mitras' to sensitise street food vendors on hygiene aspects and assist businessmen to comply with standards and facilitate licensing and registration.

Apart from strengthening food safety, this scheme would also create new employment opportunities for the youth, particularly with food and nutrition background, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said.

The initiative is aimed at scaling up the government's 'Eat Right India' movement.

'Food Safety Mitra' would undergo training and certification by FSSAI to do their work and get paid by food businesses for their services.

"The 'Eat Right India' movement is a crucial trigger for the much needed social and behavioural change. This campaign along with the 'Fit India' movement can achieve huge success if the right strategy is adopted and efforts are made to reach out to every section of the society," Vardhan said at the function to commemorate the World Food Day.

Vardhan further stated that people should adopt Mahatma Gandhi's messages of eating less, eating safe and healthy food, and also reduce wastage of food while developing the habit of sharing surplus food.

Citing the example of polio to highlight multi-sectoral approach, Vardhan said, "All of us have to take up this responsibility in our own capacities. I believe that together we will be able to develop new approaches to combat challenges to health and society."