Kerala has made a historic achievement in national food security, securing the top position in the Food Security Index for the second consecutive year. This honor comes from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. Kerala first achieved this rank last year and has successfully maintained it through strong efforts.
The national food security index is compiled by evaluating operational excellence across various awareness programs. The award, which includes a trophy and a certificate of recognition, was presented to State Food Safety Commissioner Afsana Parveen by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J. P. Nadda during a ceremony at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Kerala's ranking is attributed to excellence in over 40 areas related to food safety, including inspections, sample collection and testing, the number of NABL-accredited labs, lab testing efficiency, the operation of mobile labs, and training provided to staff and food entrepreneurs. Various awareness initiatives have also played a significant role in this success.
Health Minister Veena George Said that this recognition reflects Kerala's exceptional efforts in food safety. The state has coordinated initiatives through the 'Good Food is Our Right' campaign and implemented operations such as Operation Shawarma, Operation Fish, Operation Jaggery, and Operation Holiday. This year, all these efforts have been unified under the name 'Operation Life.' Guidelines for shawarma have been issued, and health cards have become mandatory. Additional initiatives include the Clean Street Food Hub, hygiene ratings, the Eat Right Campus, and the collection of used cooking oil, along with the formation of a Special Task Force (Intelligence).
The state has also launched a food safety grievance portal and the Eat Right Kerala mobile app. Last year, a record number of inspections were completed, with fines doubled compared to previous years. Strong actions have been taken through online reporting. The minister praised all employees in the food safety department who collaborated to achieve this significant milestone.
