Ganpati prasad at your society? FDA wants 7-day notice — and a lot more

Housing societies in Vasai-Virar and Mumbai are now requiring residents to inform the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at least seven days in advance of hosting Ganpati mahaprasad, bhandara, and other community food-distribution events. This directive, issued on September 3, aims to ensure food safety during the festivities.

The FDA emphasizes that even distributing prasad to a small group of 100-200 residents would still fall under collective food distribution. Organizers must submit a letter to the designated officer or food safety officer, including the program's date, expected number of attendees, and the caterer's FSSAI number. Caps, masks, gloves, and aprons are now mandatory for those preparing the food, and residents are advised to use RO water for drinking and cooking.

Food safety precautions include using caps, masks, gloves, and aprons, storing food in steel or food-grade containers, and displaying a Food Safety Connect QR code. Failure to comply with these guidelines could result in a fine ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1 lakh.