What is Eat Right Railway Station and Why You Should Care About It?

The certification initiative originated as part of the 'Eat Right India' campaign, launched in 2018 to enhance hygiene practices for the well-being of passengers. Governed by the top food regulatory body, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, it encompasses 240 parameters related to food storage and hygiene. Certification is based on compliance, measured on a scale of one to five, with five indicating the highest adherence to established standards and regulations.

Numerous railway stations in India have achieved this certification, becoming trailblazers and setting a noteworthy standard. If you find yourself at one of these certified stations, bring a hearty appetite, as the Eat Right Railway Station is an initiative led by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the broader Eat Right India movement.

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Within this initiative, all food vendors at railway stations, including organized catering units, restaurants, food courts, as well as smaller kiosks, retail outlets, and booths, are targeted to ensure adherence to safe cooking and handling practices during food preparation and service to railway passengers, officials, and staff.

To obtain certification, food handlers at designated railway stations must undergo training through FSSAI's FoSTaC program, followed by a third-party audit and certification based on a predefined checklist, valid for two years.

Audit Parameters

1. Compliance with food safety and hygiene

2. Healthy diet

3. Food waste management

4. Promotion of local and seasonal food

5. Promotion and awareness of food safety and healthy diets

Eat Right Station rating matrix

• Five Star (85% and above) - Exemplary

• Four Star (75% and above) - Full Compliance

• Three Star (65% and above) - Satisfactory Compliance

• Two Star (55% and above) - Partial Compliance

• Below 55% - Non-Compliance

Mumbai Central Railway Station

Mumbai Central was the country's first railway station to earn certification with a 4-star rating. You can savor soulful Indian cuisine at the Rajdhani chain of restaurants or opt for a light bite at the Bellasis Rail Cafe on the first floor.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Known for its colonial architecture, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus received a 5-star rating and 'Eat Right Station' certification in 2019. The station offers a variety of dishes, from Kulfi to Maharashtrian favorites like Poha and Pav Bhaji.

Anand Vihar Terminal Railway Station

As the third station in the country's capital to be recognized with a 5-star rating, Anand Vihar Terminal boasts many restaurants and kiosks where you can enjoy delicious, healthy meals at affordable prices.

Chandigarh Railway Station

Renowned for its urban planning and cleanliness, Chandigarh's railway station secured a 5-star rating and certification, offering a diverse range of fare, including healthy, low-calorie options.

Vadodara Railway Station

In 2020, Vadodara Railway Station earned the certification and a 5-star rating. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early to explore a variety of dishes, from vada pav and dabeli to sev usal, with the option to pack some farsan for a snack on the go.

Bhubaneswar Railway Station

With a 4-star rating and 29 food stalls, Bhubaneswar Railway Station proves to be a delightful destination for food enthusiasts.

Vizag Railway Station

This 4-star rated railway station boasts 38 stalls serving healthy, hygienic, and delicious dishes to travelers.

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In conclusion, the 'Eat Right India' initiative, introduced in 2018, has successfully elevated hygiene standards and transformed the culinary landscape at various railway stations across India. Under the guidance of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the certification process, with its rigorous parameters and star rating system, has not only incentivized compliance with food safety and hygiene but has also created a benchmark for excellence.

As the certification continues to be awarded and stations strive to achieve the highest ratings, it is evident that the 'Eat Right India' movement is not just about ensuring compliance but fostering a positive change in the way food is prepared, served, and enjoyed during train journeys. With the certification valid for two years, the ongoing efforts to maintain and improve standards reflect a sustained dedication to passenger welfare and satisfaction. Ultimately, the success of this initiative underscores the transformative power of collaborative efforts in enhancing the overall well-being of railway travelers across the country.