Chennai: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) on Tuesday organised a technical session in Chennai to promote safe and hygienic preparation of meals in schools under its monthly outreach initiative 'Manak Manthan'.

The session focused on the standard “Code for Hygienic Conditions for Preparation and Supply of Foods/Meals in Schools” and highlighted good hygienic practices, infrastructure requirements, and roles of food handlers and school authorities. It also detailed compliance tools for institutions.

Addressing the programme, BIS Chennai Branch Head S. D. Dayanand stressed the importance of instilling food safety practices at the school level to protect children from food-borne illnesses. He said the standard aims to create a culture of hygiene beyond regulatory compliance.

FSSAI Regional Director (Southern Region) V. K. Pancham, the chief guest, emphasised the need for practical hygiene protocols covering procurement, storage, cooking, serving, and waste management. He said adherence to FSSAI norms and Good Hygienic Practices is critical for schools implementing meal schemes.

The event also featured a presentation on BIS and e-BIS services by Deputy Director Anurita Nidhi Hemrom and an open house to address queries on infrastructure, personal hygiene, cleaning schedules, safe food transport, and monitoring measures.

Over 50 stakeholders, including school administrators, implementing agencies, caterers, and NGOs, attended the session, which underscored the need for standard-based hygiene practices to safeguard students' health.