Delhi: 10 Gurudwaras implement FSSAI food-safety, hygiene guidelines for Langars
What's the story
Ten Gurudwaras in Delhi including the historical Bangla Sahib Gurudwara have implemented the food safety and hygiene standards set by food regulator FSSAI. Around 1L devotees partake Prasad in these Gurdwaras on weekdays and number increases to 5L on weekends/festive occasions, Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee (DSGMC) president Manjit Singh said. FSSAI initiated Project BHOG (Blissful Hygienic Offering to God) for providing healthy food.
Hygiene standards
Management committee sets up hygiene standards for community kitchens
Singh said the management committee has set up hygiene standards for the community kitchens preparing Langar. Desi ghee and edible oils are standardized and tested for purity in government labs. Payment to suppliers is made only after the lab reports are obtained, he said. Vegetables are directly procured from Azadpur Mandi to ensure freshness, while rice, flour, and milk to be procured wholesome.
Guidelines
RO plants installed at premises to prevent food contamination
Reverse osmosis (RO) plants have been set up to provide clean water for cooking to prevent contamination of food. All regular employees engaged in Langar kitchen are required to wear aprons, gloves, and head covers. Certain items like chapatis are prepared using standard equipment without being touched by food handlers. All Langar premises are cleaned twice a day to ensure proper sanitation, Singh said.