On Monday, 20th July, 2026, three students from St. Xavier's High School—Shanaya Chhabra (Class V), Dhriti Pandey (Class VIII) and Yashnoor (Class IX)—accompanied by Ms. Riya Agarwal, attended the educational programme titled 'Promoting Food Safety & Healthy Hygiene Habits Among Children' at the National Training Centre for Food Safety (NTCFSS), FSSAI Complex, Ghaziabad.The programme included an enlightening session conducted by Dr. Manisha Narayan, Deputy Director, FSSAI, who emphasized the importance of adopting healthy eating habits and maintaining food safety in everyday life. The participants were introduced to the concept of Eat Right Food, wholesome and balanced nutrition, and the harmful effects of HFSS (High Fat, Sugar and Salt) foods on children's health.
The session also highlighted the Eat Right School Programme initiated by FSSAI, encouraging schools to promote healthier food choices and nutrition awareness among students.The resource person explained the challenges of undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, stressing the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Students also learned about the World Health Organization's 20-second handwashing rule, proper handwashing techniques, and the significance of maintaining personal hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases. Another important aspect of the session focused on the growing concern of microplastics and micro-contaminants in food. Practical safety measures to reduce exposure to these contaminants were discussed, making students aware of the importance of responsible food handling and environmental conservation. The inspiring message of "Sahi Bhojan, Behtar Jeevan – Eat Right India Movement" encouraged everyone to make healthier food choices for a better future.
The second session, conducted by Ms. Ruby, Food Analyst, demonstrated various food adulteration detection experiments. Through simple yet effective demonstrations, students gained hands-on knowledge about the two major types of food adulteration—Intentional and Incidental. They were also introduced to the Food Safety Magic Box, an innovative kit developed by FSSAI that helps detect common adulterants in food items using easy scientific tests. The participants further explored the concept of Food Fortification, understanding how essential nutrients are added to commonly consumed foods to improve public health. They also learned the correct way to read food labels and ingredient lists, identify nutritional information, and distinguish between healthy and unhealthy packaged food products. Special emphasis was laid on recognising various FSSAI logos and quality certification marks on packaged foods to help consumers make informed and safe food choices.
An engaging quiz session was organised to assess the participants' understanding of the topics covered throughout the programme. The students enthusiastically participated, demonstrating their learning and awareness about food safety, nutrition, hygiene, and consumer responsibility.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge wherein all participants promised to eat safe, eat healthy, maintain good hygiene, and protect the Earth by adopting sustainable and responsible food practices. The felicitation of the participating students and teachers was conducted by the Director of the National Training Centre for Food Safety (NTCFSS), FSSAI, appreciating their active participation and commitment towards spreading awareness about food safety.
The programme proved to be highly informative, interactive, and inspiring. It equipped students with valuable knowledge about nutrition, food safety, hygiene, food adulteration, and environmental responsibility. The participants returned with practical life skills and a renewed commitment to becoming informed consumers and ambassadors of healthy living. Such initiatives play a significant role in nurturing responsible citizens who can contribute towards building a healthier and safer society.