PANAJI
Marking World Food Safety Day, the Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Goa, will launch three major initiatives aimed at promoting food safety and healthy eating habits across the State during a special programme today 11 at the Institute of Nursing Education, Bambolim.
World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7 to raise awareness about preventing, detecting and managing food-borne risks. The theme for 2026, “From burden to solution – Safe food everywhere”, highlights the need to translate food safety challenges into practical, science-based solutions throughout the food supply chain.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and FDA Goa have been carrying out enforcement drives, food sampling, surveillance activities and awareness programmes to strengthen food safety standards and protect public health.
Since June 7 fell on a Sunday this year, the State-level observance has been scheduled for June 11. During the event, FDA Goa will launch the Nutrition Education Series, Eat Right Culinary Challenge, and Food Safety Training for Street Food Vendors.
Under the Nutrition Education Series, the Directorate will establish a Forum of Nutrition Experts in Goa in collaboration with the Goa College of Home Science. Certified nutrition experts will conduct weekly workshops at government offices, schools, colleges, consumer forums and citizen groups over the next 12 months. The workshops will focus on basic nutrition, physical exercise and healthy lifestyle practices.
The Directorate said organisations interested in hosting the programme can submit requests via email to off-dfd.goa@nic.in.
The Eat Right Culinary Challenge will provide a platform for professional and amateur chefs to showcase innovative healthy cooking practices while maintaining high standards of food safety and nutrition. The competition will be conducted through multiple rounds, including stages outside Goa, before culminating in a grand finale in the State. The initiative is being organised in collaboration with FSSAI, its Western and Southern regional offices, and the Goa Culinary Forum.
Another major initiative is the Food Safety Training for Street Food Vendors programme. In partnership with Nestlé India and the National Street Vendors Association of India (NASVI), FDA Goa plans to train 1,000 street food vendors across the State. Participants will receive FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) certification from FSSAI and will be trained in hygienic food handling practices.
