STAY HYGIENIC, STAY SAFE organized by GCCI
: Interactive Seminar on Food Safety Awareness in the Festive Season for Food Business:
Ahmedabad, GCCI organized an Awareness Session on Food Safety and Hygiene in the esteemed presence of Dr. H. G. Koshia, Commissioner, FDCA, Govt. of Gujarat, at GCCI premises. Session focused on safe food preparation, hygiene standards and compliance with FSSAI regulations, with distinguished experts and officials leading the discussions.
Shri Sandeep Engineer, President of GCCI, emphasized the significance of food in celebrations and the necessity of upholding hygiene standards, particularly during festivals like Navratri and Diwali. He highlighted the importance of collective responsibility among consumers and food vendors in maintaining safe and hygienic practices.
Shri Rajesh Gandhi, Senior Vice President of GCCI, shared similar sentiments, noting that while food is central to celebration, it is essential to remain cautious about what we consume and how it is prepared. He stressed that the food industry, particularly in Gujarat, must be vigilant during such times to prevent foodborne illnesses and we should organize more such awareness session for the betterment of industry.
Shri Kaushik Patel, Chairman of the GCCI Food & Dairy Committee, briefly touched on the committee’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about food safety among vendors, particularly during the festive season and he expressed his sincere gratitude to the committee members for their unwavering support. He further emphasized that GCCI is committed to supporting micro and small traders and business owners by organizing informative seminars, enabling them to maximize the benefits from such initiatives.
Shri Gaurang Bhagat, Hon. Secretary of GCCI, extended heartfelt thanks to the esteemed guests, attendees, and the Food & Dairy Committee for organizing this vital session at such an opportune time.
During the keynote address of Dr. H.G. Koshia, Commissioner, FDCA, Govt. of Gujarat emphasized on importance of the “Stay Hygienic, Stay Safe” initiative. He highlighted the crucial role of food safety in protecting public health, particularly during the festive season, when both vendors and consumers must exercise heightened caution regarding hygiene and safety standards.
He also shared updates on the FDCA’s regulatory efforts, highlighting the authority’s collaboration with vendors to ensure compliance. He noted that India’s food industry is leading in food grain production due to advancements in modern science. And further he mentioned that it is a matter of pride that Gujarat boasts the lowest rate of substandard food in the country.
In the technical presentation, Shri C.S. Gohil, Former Designated Officer of FDCA, addressed the practical aspects of food safety, from preparation to serving. The session provided valuable insights to food vendors and industry stakeholders, equipping them with essential tools to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain public health standards during the festive rush. He gave detailed presentation on Food Hygiene and Food Safety.
The session concluded with a Q&A where attendees had the opportunity to clarify their doubts and seek guidance on food safety protocols. Chairman, Food and Dairy Committee, Shri Kaushik Patel concluded the event with a vote of thanks.