Important : FDA Pune directs Ganesh mandals preparing prasad to register and acquire license 

September 15, 2023

Pune: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued directives to adhere strictly to hygiene regulations when preparing and distributing ‘prasad’ during Ganeshotsav. 

It has also added that the Ganesh mandals that prepare and distribute prasad to devotees, should register themselves with the FDA office.

Under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 Rules and Regulations 2011, Ganesh mandals must exercise caution and ensure that only fresh prasad is provided to devotees for consumption. If prasad is made from milk and dairy products, it must be fresh and not left to spoil. Stale food items must not be consumed by devotees.

As per the information provided, to prevent contamination, the prasad must be covered with a glass lid or transparent plastic cover. 

All individuals handling prasad must wear clean clothes and wash their hands with soap before commencing work. Individuals with infectious diseases must not handle prasad.

Personal hygiene rules must be strictly followed by individuals handling prasad. They must refrain from scratching their nose, ears, head, hair, rubbing their eyes, sneezing, spitting, using tobacco, or smoking. 

Nails must be neatly trimmed and free of dirt. A clean cloth must be used to wipe hands. 

Individuals preparing prasad must wear gloves, aprons, hats, and mouth masks that cover their hair completely.

Madhupriya Dhanwate