In a landmark ruling, the Kerala High Court has mandated stringent measures to ensure food safety compliance across the state. This directive comes in the wake of a tragic 2022 incident where a 16-year-old girl died after consuming contaminated shawarma. The Court, while hearing the case filed by the victim’s mother, called for periodic inspections of eateries and strict enforcement of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Licences of offenders will be revoked, and violators will face immediate legal action, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Court’s intervention extends to mandating all shawarma-selling establishments to prominently display food preparation dates and times on packaging. Justice highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability within the food industry, stating that authorities must ensure the swift implementation of these measures. The case also exposed a delay in providing compensation to the victim’s family, violating Section 65 of the Act, which stipulates financial relief within six months of an incident.
This directive underscores the criticality of sustainable and safe food practices. By emphasising periodic checks, the Court seeks to reduce foodborne illnesses, minimising healthcare burdens and contributing to broader sustainability goals. Safer food practices not only protect public health but also enhance consumer trust, essential for the hospitality and food sectors’ long-term growth.
From a civic perspective, this judgment is a call to address urban challenges tied to unregulated food practices. As urban centres in Kerala expand, maintaining high food safety standards becomes integral to public welfare. By enforcing these directives, the Court honours the courage of individuals like the petitioner, whose relentless pursuit of justice has catalysed systemic change. This ruling represents a pivotal step towards a safer, healthier Kerala.
