UGC Urges Higher Education Institutions to Prioritize Food Safety Awareness Among Students
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently issued a directive to Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), urging them to take an active role in promoting food safety awareness among students.
In a letter penned by UGC Secretary Manish Joshi, the emphasis is placed on the prevalence of foodborne diseases, which annually affect millions globally due to mishandling, inadequate storage, or improper preparation of food. Joshi highlights the heightened vulnerability of students, given their busy schedules and frequent reliance on ready-to-eat meals.
In response to these concerns, the UGC is rallying support for initiatives led by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the country's apex food regulator operating under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The FSSAI has been actively engaging in disseminating updates on healthy food habits, educational campaigns, and alerts related to foodborne illnesses through its social media channels.
The UGC's official notice underscores the importance of educating students about food safety measures to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed dietary choices. To further this agenda, HEIs are encouraged to integrate FSSAI's messages into their communication channels and activities, fostering a culture of food safety awareness within the student community.
"The Higher Education institutions are requested to take proactive steps in spreading FSSAI's messages and supporting food safety initiatives that will cultivate a culture of food safety consciousness and enhance the wellbeing of the student population," the notice concludes.
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