Coimbatore bags first spot in national level ‘Eat Right Challenge’

Coimbatore: The district secured the first spot in Phase II of the national level Eat Right Challenge, held by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) which functions under the union health and family welfare ministry. The challenge organised between May and November last year saw the participation of 231 districts. Coimbatore secured 196 out of 200 to win the first prize.
Several activities were carried out in the district to create awareness on food safety and ensure residents consume safe food. An FSSAI official said activities were conducted to ensure the sale of safe food, create awareness on eating the right food and ensuring a hygienic environment in the food businesses. A drive was also organised to ensure food business operators, function with licenses and food samples were collected and tested. Food business operators were also encouraged to file annual returns. Efforts were also taken to spread awareness on food safety in colleges and schools. There were also awareness drives on millets and its health benefits.
Union health and family welfare minister Mansukh L Mandaviya issued a certificate of appreciation for Coimbatore at an event organised in New Delhi on Wednesday, which is observed as world food safety day. Designated officer for food safety Dr K Tamil Selvam received the certificate on behalf of the district.