Food Safety On Wheels

The "Food Safety on Wheels" (FSW) initiative by the Commissionerate of Food Safety Kerala is a mobile outreach program designed to enhance food safety awareness and enforcement across the state. Each of Kerala's 14 districts is equipped with an FSW vehicle, serving as a mobile food testing laboratory and educational unit.

These vehicles are instrumental in conducting preliminary testing of food samples, particularly in remote areas and during large public gatherings. They facilitate the transportation of samples to the nearest food testing laboratories, ensuring a cold chain is maintained for regulatory and surveillance purposes. Additionally, FSW units function as offsite extensions of laboratories, providing on-the-spot testing services.

Beyond testing, FSWs play a crucial role in educating consumers about food safety laws and hygiene practices. They disseminate Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in local languages, conduct training sessions for street food vendors, and assist food business operators with licensing and registration processes. The initiative also includes awareness programs targeting schools, workplaces, and community organizations to foster a culture of food safety throughout Kerala. 

During significant events like the Sabarimala pilgrimage, FSWs are deployed at key locations such as Nilakkal, Pamba, and Sannidhanam to ensure the safety and quality of food offered to pilgrims. They conduct inspections of food establishments, test raw materials used in prasadam preparation, and ensure compliance with food safety standards. 

Through the "Food Safety on Wheels" program, Kerala aims to make food safety more accessible and enforceable, ensuring that safe and wholesome food is available to all its citizens.