Pune: FDA Orders To Follow Rules Regarding Prasad For Upcoming Ganeshotsav

Pune, 6th September 2024: During the Ganeshotsav period, Ganesh mandals should strictly follow the rules of cleanliness while preparing and distributing Prasad. Also, instructions have been given by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that the Ganesh Mandals who prepare and cook Prasad and distribute it to the devotees should register with the FDA Office.

It is ordered that Ganesh Mandal should follow all the necessary protocols under the Food Safety & Standards Act 2006 Rules and Regulations 2011. The Prasad prepared for the devotee should be covered in a glass lid or a transparent plastic cover to avoid dust, soil, and other insects. Stale food should not be given to devotees.

It is also informed that the person handling the Prasad should carefully implement all the rules of personal hygiene. A person suffering from an infectious disease is not allowed to prepare and handle Prasad. The fingernails of the person handling the Prasad should be neatly trimmed and free of dirt. The person preparing Prasad should wear gloves and an apron as well as a cap that covers the hair completely and a mask over the mouth.

Ganesha mandals who prepare and cook Prasad themselves and distribute it to the devotees are advised to register on the website https://foscos.fssai.gov.in following a fee of Rs 100 and get the registration certificate. SG Annapure, Joint Commissioner (Food), FDA advised that purchase bills of raw food should be kept and raw food should be purchased from licensed shops.