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Madurai Temple Fest: Strict Food Safety Rules Ahead!
28 Aug
Summary
- Food safety department mandates hygiene and environmental rules for food distribution.
- Artificial colors banned; only quality, unexpired ingredients can be used.
- Plastic packaging banned, encouraging use of banana leaves and palm plates.
Ahead of the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple consecration on September 17, Madurai's district food safety department has implemented stringent hygiene and environmental mandates. These rules apply to all entities distributing food and beverages to pilgrims, ensuring annadhanam services, prasadam, drinks, and snacks are safe and unadulterated.
Preparations must strictly avoid artificial food colorings and synthetic dyes. Only high-quality, non-expired raw ingredients are permitted, with mandatory checks on manufacture and expiration dates. Food handlers must maintain clean preparation sites and utilize designated dustbins for proper waste disposal.
Furthermore, polythene bags and plastic cups are banned at all food distribution points. Organizers are required to use eco-friendly alternatives such as banana leaves and palm plates. Temporary stalls for drinks and eateries will be under direct supervision by food safety inspectors.
To ensure compliance, online registration via the official FSSAI portal is mandatory for all food distributors, involving a ₹100 fee for a food safety registration certificate. Failure to obtain authorization will lead to legal action.
