Beyond Catering: The Hidden Hands of Food Safety and Food Security—Why Decorators and Cleaners Matter

When we think of food safety and food security, our minds often drift to the kitchen—to the skilled caterers who prepare our meals with care. But what if we told you that some of the most crucial guardians of our food aren’t the ones behind the stove? In fact, the unsung heroes who ensure that our food is not only delicious but also safe and secure are often found beyond the kitchen.

Welcome to the world of decorators and cleaners—the hidden hands of food safety and food security.

These individuals may not always be in the spotlight, but their impact on the food we eat is undeniable. Imagine a beautifully decorated event, where the ambiance is perfect, the table settings are pristine, and every detail speaks of elegance. Behind this seamless experience are decorators who, through their choices and actions, play a pivotal role in ensuring that the environment where food is served is clean, safe, and free from contamination. The linens they choose, the cleanliness of the cutlery, and even the setup of the serving stations—all contribute to the overall safety of the food we consume.

Then there are the cleaners—the quiet, diligent workers who ensure that every pot, pan, and plate is spotless. Their work doesn’t just stop at removing visible dirt; they are the first line of defense against harmful bacteria and foodborne illnesses. By maintaining rigorous sanitation standards, they protect us from the unseen dangers that can lurk in even the cleanest-looking kitchens.

But here’s the challenge:

Despite their critical roles, decorators and cleaners often don’t receive the same level of training or recognition as caterers. The FoSTaC training program by FSSAI, while excellent for equipping caterers with food safety knowledge, doesn’t extend to these key players. This oversight leaves a gap in the food safety and food security chain—a gap that Samposhyam Foundation is determined to bridge.

At Samposhyam Foundation, we believe that food safety and food security are everyone’s responsibility. That’s why we’re focusing on sensitizing and training decorators, cleaners, and all other stakeholders involved in food preparation and service. By empowering these hidden hands with the knowledge and tools they need, we can ensure that every meal served—whether at a grand event or a humble gathering—is safe, secure, and free from risk.

The question now is:

How can we better involve decorators, cleaners, and other key players in this mission? How can we ensure that they, too, are recognized as vital contributors to food safety and food security?

Join us in this important conversation. Together, we can shine a light on the hidden hands that make our food not only a pleasure to eat but also safe for all.

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