In response to student complaints about food quality in college messes and canteens, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to adhere to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) directives through its ‘Eat Right Campus’ initiative. Launched in 2019, this initiative aims to promote safe, healthy, and sustainable food practices across educational campuses.
Current Participation and Efforts: Despite the initiative’s launch, only 400 educational campuses have actively acquired certification under ‘Eat Right Campus’. Institutions like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Indore, IIT Bhubaneswar, and IIT Roorkee are among those certified. Certification, valid for two years, requires adherence to benchmarks in food safety measures, provision of healthy and sustainable food, and promoting awareness for informed food choices.
Implementation and Collaboration: Educational institutions, including Delhi University and the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM), have collaborated with FSSAI to certify their campuses. Delhi University has integrated regular seminars on food safety and designated faculty members as food safety officers to oversee compliance and certification processes.
Impact and Behavioral Changes: Certified campuses like IIT Roorkee report positive outcomes, including improved food habits and behavioral changes among students. Regular audits and training sessions for food handlers ensure ongoing compliance with FSSAI standards and reinforce healthy eating practices.
Certification Process: Campuses seeking certification undergo self-assessment and third-party audits by FSSAI-approved agencies. Training sessions like Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) for food handlers emphasize hygiene, allergen management, and regulatory compliance. Achieving a three-star rating or higher results in certification as an ‘Eat Right Campus’, with ongoing efforts monitored by designated focal persons.
Future Directions: The ‘Eat Right Campus’ initiative continues to advocate for safe, healthy, and sustainable eating habits through local and seasonal food promotion, limiting unhealthy options, and mass awareness campaigns. The collaboration between UGC, FSSAI, and educational institutions aims to foster a campus environment conducive to healthier lifestyles and food practices.
For further details and updates on the initiative, students and faculty are encouraged to visit the official websites of UGC and FSSAI.
