What Maharashtra’s SOP Outlines
The Maharashtra government has introduced new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the mid‑day meal scheme. A landmark rule states:
⚖️ “If a food‑poisoning incident is traced to poor-quality ingredients—confirmed via lab test—a criminal case will be filed against the supplier, and the supplier’s payment will be withheld.”
SOP Responsibilities for Stakeholders
Suppliers must provide fresh, unexpired ingredients like rice, oil, grains, salt, and spices. Expiry dates must be within one year and grains stored hygienically.
School staff must taste meals before serving, retain food samples for 24 hours, and maintain kitchen hygiene.
Block Education Officers are responsible for regular inspections and issuing fines ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh for lapses.
When Criminal Charges Apply
Criminal liability falls on the supplier if:
Raw ingredients are found to be substandard.
A certified laboratory test confirms that these ingredients caused food poisoning.
In such cases, a criminal case will be filed and payment will be stopped.
If poor hygiene or storage at the school caused the issue, the supplier is not held accountable.
Why This Matters
Brings legal accountability to food suppliers.
Strengthens school food safety protocols.
Protects the health of millions of schoolchildren.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Does every food-borne illness lead to criminal charges?
No. Criminal charges apply only when a lab confirms poor-quality raw ingredients from the supplier as the cause.
Q2: What if food spoils after delivery due to storage issues?
Then the school or local staff is responsible—not the supplier.
Q3: Are criminal cases filed immediately?
Only after confirmation via laboratory testing.
Q4: What penalties exist for schools if they mishandle food?
Fines up to ₹1 lakh for unhygienic storage or improper practices.
Q5: Who enforces these SOPs?
State education officials and food safety authorities monitor and enforce compliance.
Published on : 5th August
Published by : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed