Food Safety Administration, Dimapur Zone under CMO’s Office, Dimapur observed World Food Safety Day at Government Higher Secondary School, Diphupar A, Chümoukedima on June 9.
DIMAPUR, JUNE 10 (MExN): The Food Safety Administration, Dimapur Zone under the establishment of Chief Medical Officer’s Office, Dimapur observed World Food Safety Day on the theme, “Food Safety: Science in Action” at Government Higher Secondary School, Diphupar A, Chümoukedima. The World Food Safety Day is celebrated on June 7 all over the world. However, this year, June 7 being a national holiday, the same was observed on June 9.
Chief Medical Officer Dr T Temsu Longkumer, in his keynote address, emphasized the importance of taking care of one's body, especially during the hot weather season. He suggested that the school build an ORS corner to help students stay hydrated and prevent conditions like heat strokes or fainting.
Dr Longkumer also spoke about common food poisoning symptoms and prevention, advising students to prefer home cooked meals over readymade food and to avoid eating leftover food from home. He advised the students to inculcate the habit of reading labels of food products and check for FSSAI Registration/License and raise complaints if these are missing.
Designated Officer, Food Safety, Samuel Zehol highlighted the significance of education in shaping healthy eating habits from a very early age. He noted that food safety and nutrition are being integrated into the Indian school curriculums and that safe food is a shared responsibility that touches every home, region, community, and nation.
He highlighted that this year’s theme is both timely and relevant, with the theme aligning seamlessly with the national effort in FSSAI with ‘Eat Right India Movement’ and more recently with the clarion call given by the Prime Minister, to combat the rising obesity and non-communicable diseases through preventive science-backed strategies rooted in safe wholesome food and traditional diets.
Through the theme, the crucial role of science in understanding food safety and preventing food-borne diseases is highlighted, Zehol maintained while adding that this initiative aims to empower Indians to make informed food choices, contributing to a healthier nation.
With the rising concern of obesity due to excessive sugar and unhealthy trans-fat consumption, the Ministry of Health plans to promote healthy eating habits through sugar and oil awareness programs in schools, workplaces, and public institutions, he further stated.
The program was chaired by C Henow Phom, Principal, Government Higher Secondary school, Diphupar A, who also delivered the welcome address. Students of Class-12 participated in the program and five students bagged prizes in the Quiz competition.
Earlier in the program, demonstration of common food adulterants, dyes & sugar chart presentation, and quiz was conducted by Zuthungbemo Ngullie and Lika Assumi, Food Technicians of Food Safety on Wheels, Dimapur.
