The Dakshina Kannada Catering Owners Association has called on local authorities to take strict measures against unregistered caterers operating in the district. The association has proposed new guidelines for marriage halls and event venues, aiming to ensure that only licensed caterers with valid trade and FSSAI licenses are permitted to serve food.
Abdul Rasheed, president of the association, highlighted the issue of unregistered caterers supplying substandard food, which has led to multiple customer complaints. The association, consisting of approximately 250 registered members, emphasized that its members adhere to hygiene standards and bear significant costs for licenses, waste disposal, and maintenance of their kitchens. These registered caterers, who pay annual fees for trade and FSSAI licenses, are compliant with health and safety regulations, ensuring safe food preparation and delivery.
In contrast, unregistered caterers operating without these necessary licenses not only evade fees and regulations but also benefit from municipal services like waste disposal without contributing to costs. Rasheed and Rajgopal Rai, a member of the association, stressed that these unauthorized operators undermine the industry by serving potentially unsafe food, with no accountability in the event of food-related incidents.
The association has submitted a memorandum to the Mangaluru City Corporation, district administration, and other relevant departments, advocating for measures similar to those implemented in other regions, where only licensed caterers are allowed to operate at venues.
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