Rush To Work, But Not At The Cost Of Your Health: Viral Dadar Video Raises Questions Over Station Breakfasts

With thousands of commuters grabbing a quick bite at railway stations every morning, a viral video alleging the sale of stale food at Dadar station has once again highlighted the importance of choosing safe and hygienic meals.

By Vidhi Lalla 

Pune: Every weekday morning, lakhs of commuters in Mumbai, Pune and other cities race against the clock. Some sprint to catch a local train, while others rush to punch in at the office before attendance closes. In the middle of this daily hustle, breakfast often becomes an afterthought, leading many to pick up a vada pav, samosa or sandwich from station stalls or vendors outside railway premises.

A recent viral video from Dadar railway station has reignited concerns about food safety. The video allegedly shows a shop displaying vada pav and samosas for sale immediately after opening in the morning, raising allegations that the items may have been prepared the previous day. While the authenticity of individual claims is yet to be officially established, the incident has triggered widespread discussion on hygiene and food handling practices at busy transit hubs.

Food safety experts have long warned that improperly stored cooked food can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the World Health Organization (WHO), cooked food left at room temperature for extended periods falls within the “danger zone” where bacteria multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Common symptoms of consuming contaminated food include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, fever and dehydration. While healthy adults often recover quickly, children, senior citizens, pregnant women and people with weakened immunity face a higher risk of serious complications.

Health experts say commuters do not necessarily have to skip breakfast despite busy schedules. A little preparation at home can provide healthier and safer alternatives that require minimal effort.

Quick Breakfast Options To Assemble In Minutes

• Peanut butter or vegetable sandwich
• Idli with dry chutney powder
• Thepla or chapati roll with paneer or vegetables
• Boiled eggs with fruit
• Overnight oats with curd and nuts
• Sprouts salad with lemon
• Banana, apple and a handful of roasted chana
• Dry fruits and yoghurt cup

Most of these meals can be assembled in five to ten minutes and are easy to carry during daily commutes.

“I used to buy breakfast at the station almost every day because I was always late. After hearing about such incidents, I now keep a sandwich and fruit in my bag. It saves money and gives peace of mind,” said Megha Kulkarni, a regular suburban commuter.

Dr. Anjali Deshmukh, Consultant Physician, said, “Skipping breakfast or repeatedly eating food from unreliable sources can affect digestion, energy levels and overall health. Fresh home-prepared meals or food purchased from hygienic and reputed outlets are always a safer choice. If cooked food has been left unrefrigerated for several hours, it should be avoided.”

Commuters are also advised to look for basic signs of food hygiene before making a purchase. Freshly prepared items, clean serving counters, covered food, proper storage and staff maintaining hygiene are positive indicators. If food smells unusual, appears dry or discoloured, or is kept uncovered for long periods, it is best avoided.

With millions relying on station food every day, experts say stronger hygiene monitoring and greater consumer awareness are equally important. A few extra minutes spent preparing breakfast at home could help reduce the risk of foodborne illness while ensuring a healthier start to an already hectic day.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly reported information, general food safety guidelines and expert recommendations. The viral video has sparked public concern, but readers should rely on official findings for any regulatory action or conclusions regarding specific establishments.