A recent incident on Indian Railways, where a Delhi resident found a centipede in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) meal served at a VIP lounge, has raised serious concerns about food hygiene on trains and railway stations. This alarming case is just one example among a growing number of complaints related to the quality and safety of food served by Indian Railways and its partners. With hygiene-related complaints rising significantly, passengers need to be vigilant to avoid risks like food poisoning during their journey.
Although Indian Railways has taken steps to improve food safety—such as partnering with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for inspections and certifications—incidents like this highlight that challenges remain. Here are essential tips to help you avoid food poisoning and stay safe while enjoying a meal on your train journey. Tips for safe eating on Indian trains: 1.
Opt for freshly prepared and hot meals Whenever possible, choose freshly prepared, hot meals over pre-packaged or pre-cooked items that might have been stored for hours. Food that is hot is generally safer because the heat kills most bacteria. Pantry car kitchens on express trains often serve freshly cooked food, and hot items purchased at stations are usually safer than those that have been left out for extended periods.
2. Use e-catering for reliable food choices Take advantage of e-catering services available on Indian Railways, which allow y.