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Maharashtra FDA Requires Prior Registration For Ganeshotsav Feasts
The Maharashtra FDA says Ganeshotsav feasts must be registered before food is served.
Organisers need to apply at least seven days in advance.
They can apply online through the FoSCoS website or visit an FDA office.
The application requires information about the mandal, trustee and caterer.
Caterers and suppliers must have the proper licences.
Food must be fresh, safely stored and handled hygienically.
FDA teams may test food and inspect supplies before, during and after festivals.
Breaking the rules can lead to legal action against organisers.
Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has made prior registration compulsory for Ganeshotsav Bhandara and Mahaprasad events.
Organisers must submit an FDA proforma at least seven days before food distribution begins.
Applications can be filed through the FSSAI FoSCoS portal or at a local FDA office.
Organisers must use licensed caterers and vendors, retain raw-material bills for one year, and follow hygiene and storage rules.
The enforcement calendar also covers Navratri, Diwali, Eid, Christmas, New Year and other public food-distribution events.
- Who
- The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration, led by Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, and organisers of Ganeshotsav community feasts.
- What
- Prior FDA registration is compulsory for mandals distributing Bhandara or Mahaprasad, with food-safety checks and licensing requirements.
- Where
- The rules apply across Maharashtra; applications are available through the FSSAI FoSCoS portal or local FDA offices.
- When
- Applications must be submitted at least seven days before food distribution; monitoring begins 21 days before a festival and may continue up to 30 days afterward.
- Why
- The FDA says the measures are intended to prevent food adulteration and the distribution of substandard or unsafe food at large gatherings.
Key facts
- Registration deadline
- At least seven days before food distribution begins
- Application route
- FSSAI FoSCoS portal or a local FDA office
- Reported fee
- ₹100, described in the article as unverified against the FDA's own notification
- Caterer requirement
- Organisers must hire licensed caterers and provide the caterer's valid FSSAI licence number
- Raw-material sourcing
- Dealers must buy from licensed vendors and retain bills for one year
- Hygiene rules
- Food handlers must use head caps, masks and gloves; stale food is not permitted
- Storage and water
- Use food-grade stainless-steel or approved containers and RO-purified or certified-safe drinking water
Sources
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