NIFTEM-K, an institute of national importance under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, concluded its two-day observance of World Food Safety Day 2025 with a strong emphasis on innovation and grassroots engagement. The theme, “Food Safety: Science in Action,” underscored the institution’s commitment to strengthening food safety awareness and scientific intervention. The celebration featured impactful initiatives, including workshops for street food vendors and expert discussions on integrating science into food safety policies.
On the first day of the event, NIFTEM-K collaborated with FSSAI to organize a food safety awareness workshop for over a hundred street food vendors and small business operators from Delhi NCR and Sonipat. The session covered crucial aspects of hygiene, sanitation, proper food storage, and handling practices. Participants were educated about licensing requirements and the importance of compliance with statutory regulations. A live demonstration of rapid adulteration testing kits developed by NIFTEM-K showcased methods to detect impurities in milk and milk products, spices, and tea. The workshop concluded with certificates awarded to vendors, reinforcing their role in ensuring food safety and consumer trust.
Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, addressed the participants, emphasizing the responsibility of food vendors in maintaining public health. He introduced the concepts of “Thoda Kam” and “Eat Right,” urging vendors to embrace best practices. He shared that discussions with the CEO of FSSAI were underway to develop a program where select street vendors from Sonipat would receive modern food carts, rapid detection kits, and essential paraphernalia to improve food safety standards. He highlighted the potential for these vendors to become role models, creating a ripple effect for wider change in food handling practices. His remarks were echoed by Shri Ankeshwar Mishra, Joint Director (Training) at FSSAI-HQ, who praised NIFTEM-K’s efforts in grassroots food safety education. Shri Mukul Gupta, National Resource Person from FoSTaC, facilitated an interactive training session covering topics such as effective handwashing techniques, the importance of potable water, the correct procedures for washing utensils, pest control measures, and the rationale behind refrigerated storage for perishable items.
On the second day, NIFTEM-K hosted a thought-provoking webinar discussing the role of scientific advancements in food safety. Dr. Oberoi stressed the need for science to move beyond laboratory research and integrate into public policy and daily practice. He warned of the potential for foodborne epidemics and advocated for the inclusion of food safety principles in school curricula. He also called for the development of stainless-steel food carts, affordable rapid testing kits, and greater research into foodborne pathogens and contaminants. Proposing the establishment of a Center for Food Safety and Authenticity at NIFTEM-K, he sought support from FSSAI for cutting-edge research to strengthen food standards, especially in identifying emerging contaminants.
The webinar featured distinguished experts who shared insights into various aspects of food safety. Dr. Iddya Karunasagar from NITTE University explained the importance of risk analysis, emphasizing that proper management and communication are essential alongside testing. Dr. Rajan Sharma from ICAR-NDRI presented rapid detection kits for milk safety and discussed the significance of stringent standards for perishable commodities. Prof. Afrozul Haq, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Manipur International University, examined food allergens and the effects of vitamin consumption, warning about the dangers of hypervitaminosis. Mr. Rakesh Kumar from the Tea Board explored contamination risks in tea processing and commended NIFTEM-K for its innovations in detection kits targeting pesticides and artificial colors in tea.
The program concluded with a unified call to action, urging stakeholders to make food safety a sustained national priority embedded in policies, education, research, and public awareness campaigns. NIFTEM-K reaffirmed its leadership in advancing food safety through innovation, outreach, and capacity building, working toward a safer and healthier food environment for all.
