Kerala's campus food safety certification programme faces renewal crisis

Kerala's progress in establishing safer food environments on educational campuses has stalled, with certification numbers remaining low even as existing credentials face imminent expiration. The 'Eat Right Campus' programme, a flagship initiative of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), seeks to create healthier dining ecosystems across schools and colleges by implementing rigorous food safety protocols and nutritional standards.

According to current data, only 250 institutions across the state have secured the certification, while 204 existing certificates are approaching their validity dates. This renewal challenge threatens to undermine gains made in the programme's objectives, which include reducing foodborne illnesses, preventing nutritional deficiency diseases, and combating non-communicable diseases linked to poor dietary practices among the student population.

The 'Eat Right Campus' framework requires participating institutions to meet comprehensive standards covering food sourcing, preparation, storage and hygiene practices. Educational bodies must also ensure balanced nutrition in meal planning and demonstrate commitment to sustainable food procurement. The certification process involves third-party audits and regular monitoring to maintain compliance.

Industry observers suggest that the low adoption rate and impending expirations indicate possible challenges in implementation capacity, awareness gaps, or resource constraints among educational institutions. State health authorities have not yet announced renewal drives or extension of deadlines for expiring certifications.

The FSSAI has previously expanded the 'Eat Right Campus' initiative across multiple states as part of broader efforts to strengthen institutional food safety frameworks and promote preventive health measures through educational settings.