Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to public health and food safety, a Food Safety Training and Culinary Workshop for Self-Help Group (SHG) women was organised in Panaji by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), West Region, in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Goa. The initiative was supported by Health Minister Vishwajit Rane as part of sustained efforts to ensure safe and hygienic food for all Goans.
The programme focused on enhancing awareness of food hygiene, safe handling practices, sanitation standards, prevention of cross-contamination, and compliance with food safety regulations.
Empowering Women Through Knowledge and Certification
A key objective of the programme was to empower SHG women, street food vendors, and food-based micro-entrepreneurs with essential knowledge and skills. Participants underwent structured training modules and received FSSAI-recognised certificates upon completion, enabling them to improve professional credibility and consumer confidence.
Officials noted that such certifications play an important role in formalising small food businesses and integrating them into the regulated food ecosystem.
Hands-On Culinary Workshop Enhances Practical Skills
In addition to theoretical training, the programme featured a hands-on culinary workshop demonstrating hygienic, nutritious, and cost-effective cooking techniques. The practical sessions were designed to help participants adopt safer preparation methods while maintaining affordability and nutritional value.
The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ culinary skills and expand livelihood opportunities, particularly for women-led enterprises in the informal food sector.
Launch of Food Adulteration Program Ambassadors
The initiative also marked the launch of the Food Adulteration Program Ambassadors (FAPA), a step aimed at strengthening vigilance against food adulteration. Through this programme, trained ambassadors will help identify adulteration, spread awareness, and act as community-level advocates for food safety.
Authorities stated that the FAPA initiative would complement existing enforcement mechanisms by increasing public participation in food safety monitoring.
Large Participation Reflects Public Engagement
Over 700 SHG members, street food vendors, and food business operators participated in the programme, reflecting strong public engagement and growing awareness about food safety standards. Officials described the turnout as an encouraging sign of community willingness to adopt safer practices.
The programme aligns with the broader public health vision advocated by Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, which prioritises preventive health measures and community-driven initiatives.
Strengthening Trust in Goa’s Food Ecosystem
Concluding the programme, officials reiterated that ensuring safe, hygienic, and trustworthy food is a shared responsibility involving regulators, vendors, and consumers. Initiatives such as this are expected to significantly enhance food quality standards across the state.
Under Vishwajit Rane’s leadership, the state continues to focus on strengthening food safety systems, empowering women entrepreneurs, and safeguarding public health across Goa.