Tag: Food

India may have only one food regulator for certification

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Amidst concerns regarding contamination in Indian spices, the government is considering consolidating food certification under one regulator.

Earlier this year, discussions were held on the proposal, aiming for ‘One Nation, One Commodity, One Regulator’ under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), potentially eliminating the need for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or AGMARK certification.

A final decision awaits the formation of the new government post-June 4, following the conclusion of the Lok Sabha Election on June 1.

Recently, spice brands MDH and Everest have come under radar due to quality concerns. Last month, Singapore and Hong Kong recalled MDH and Everest spices from the market due to the presence of ethylene oxide.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, ethylene oxide poses serious health risks, including an increased risk of breast cancer.

The Food Authority may also set standards for ‘Haleem’ as part of standards for meat products. Haleem is a dish made of meat, pulses, grains and other ingredients, which currently do not have any set standards.

Additionally, in February, the Food Authority approved a comprehensive manual of analysis methods to ensure regulatory compliance in food products, signalling a proactive approach towards enhancing food safety standards.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Watch | PM Modi, wearing a turban, serves langar at Patna gurdwara

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, May 13, visited the Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib in Bihar’s Patna City. The Prime Minister was seen wearing a Sikh turban as he bowed his head in Darbar Sahib and even distributed food (langar) to devotees at the Gurdwara.

“Prayed at Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib this morning. Felt truly blessed to experience the divinity, serenity and rich history of this sacred place. This Gurudwara has a close link with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Our Government had the honour of marking his 350th Parkash Utsav in a grand manner. May the teachings of the Sikh Gurus continue to inspire and guide us all,” PM Modi wrote on social media site X while sharing a few photographs from his visit.

Prayed at Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib this morning. Felt truly blessed to experience divinity, serenity and rich history of this sacred place. This Gurudwara has a close link with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Our Government had the honour of marking his 350th Parkash Utsav… pic.twitter.com/IsHGKxCBSm

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 13, 2024

On taking part in ‘Seva’ at the Gurudwara, he said it was a “very humbling and special experience” for him.

“Sikhism is rooted in the principles of equality, justice and compassion. Central to Sikhism is Seva. This morning in Patna, I also had the honour of taking part in Seva as well. It was a very humbling and special experience,” he said in another post.

Sikhism is rooted in the principles of equality, justice and compassion. Central to Sikhism is Seva. This morning in Patna, I also had the honour of taking part in Seva as well. It was a very humbling and special experience. pic.twitter.com/0H8LufyzJ6

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 13, 2024

Former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, who is seeking re-election from the Patna Sahib parliamentary constituency in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, was also present when PM Modi visited.

“It’s a historic day and a matter of pride for us… Modi Ji is the first Prime Minister who visited Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib,” Prasad told mediapersons.

Located in the state’s capital city, Takhat Sri Patna Sahib also known as Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji, Patna Sahib, is one of the five takhats of the Sikhs.

The construction of the takhat was earlier commissioned by Maharaja Ranjit Singh during the 18th century to mark the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.

Guru Gobind Singh was born in Patna in the year 1666. He spent his early years at this place before moving to Anandpur Sahib.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

With nearly 6 million orders, biryani tops Ramadan food charts on Swiggy report

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Indian food enthusiasts’ love for biryani knows no bounds is something we already knew, and now a report by Swiggy, the online food delivery platform, has made it official. Swiggy unveiled its Ramadan order analysis, proving the nation’s continued love affair with the most popular delicacy, biryani. Offering a glimpse of some of the most popular Iftar foods ordered by its customers, this analysis sheds light on unique food trends based on orders placed on Swiggy from March 12 to April 8, 2024.

As per the Swiggy report, the month of Ramadan recorded around 6 million plates of Biryani ordered via the platform, marking a 15% increase compared to regular months. Among the cities that placed the highest number of orders for biryani was Hyderabad with a staggering figure of over a million plates. Besides biryani, the city also placed a whopping order of 5.3 lakh plates of haleem during the holy month.

In addition to the number of biryani plates ordered, Swiggy’s reports also included the time during which the maximum orders were placed. It suggested a 34% increase in orders between 5:30 and 7 pm (the approximate time for Iftar) in comparison to the regular hours. Apart from that, it also claimed that chicken biryani, mutton haleem, samosa, falooda, and kheer were among the most ordered food items around this time nationwide, showcasing their enduring popularity among the masses.

There was a significant increase in orders for other dishes as well. While Haleem saw an increase of 1454.88 per cent, the orders for Phirni and Malpua went up by 80.97 per cent and 70.97 per cent respectively. Falooda saw an increase of 57.93 per cent while Dates’ orders rose by 48.40 per cent. According to the report, the sweet spots for Ramadan like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Bhopal, and Meerut placed the most number of orders for sweet dishes including Malpua and Phirni.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Easter 2024: The Leela Ambience to Anna Maya, Delhi’s top brunch destinations

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Easter is a Christian festival, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after he was crucified. The day is observed by going to church, exchanging presents, and spending time with friends and family. Nothing is more ideal than indulging in a feast with loved ones on this special day.

In case you haven’t been able to organise anything for Easter, have a look at these Delhi eateries that provide delectable brunches and enjoy spending the day with your loved ones.

Radisson Blu MBD Hotel

On March 31, 2024, Radisson Blu will host Easter celebrations in Noida. Apart from savouring their signature dishes, you and your children can also get involved in activities like egg painting and Easter egg searching.

Timings – 11:00 am to 11:00 pm

The Leela Ambience

All of the festival favourites are featured in a special Easter buffet at the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant, Spectra.

Timings – 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm

Also Read: Easter 2024: Estella to JW Cafe, Mumbai’s top restaurants for best Sunday brunch

Roseate House

World cuisine cafe DEL is having a special brunch with roasted leg of lamb, along with traditional fare like simnel cake and hot cross buns.

Timings – 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Pullman

A special menu with delicacies like Benger Easter chicken, Easter nest cake, shakshuka, coconut bunny cake, and serradura is available at this upscale restaurant. Children can take part in the treasure hunt and egg painting.

Timings – 12.30 pm onwards

Also Read: Easter 2024: From Radisson Blu to 1Q1, experience the best of Bengaluru’s brunch scene

AnnaMaya

AnnaMaya has been recognised as a European food hall presenting old cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy their Pecan Pie, Blueberry Cheesecake, Delhi’s Original Butter Chicken, Butter Garlic Prawns, and Lamb Chops.

It is open year-round, twenty-four hours a day, in Andaz Delhi, Aerocity.

Kitchen District

On Sunday, take the family to Kitchen District for a hearty Easter brunch that includes delicious food, live music and child-friendly events. Enjoy a selection of unique drinks or a glass of wine while you eat the delicious meals.

Timings – 12:30 pm – 01:00 am

Le Meridien

With five active kitchens, this restaurant serves over 250 different types of food. You’ll need to visit several times to truly experience the endless array of cuisine alternatives available here. In addition to being spacious, the restaurant features a private dining room. This is among the most ideal venues for this Sunday’s Easter brunch.

Timings – 10:00 am – 01:00 am

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Easter 2024: From Radisson Blu to 1Q1, experience the best of Bengaluru’s brunch scene

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Easter represents new beginnings and treasured moments with family and friends. And what would Easter be without a lavish feast? Here is a selection of Bengaluru restaurants where you can celebrate Easter Sunday, enjoy some sweets, and have a delicious Easter brunch.

Radisson Blu Atria

For opulent dishes like Mixed Spice Easter Pudding, Roasted Pumpkin & Walnut Cannelloni, Greek Style Egg & Lamb Salad and Chicken & Egg Roulade, visit Radisson Blu Atria. Additionally, there are special Indian and Asian delicacies for the event.

Sheraton Grand

Raising the party to new heights, guests are invited to fully immerse themselves in a three-course culinary adventure at Feast, the versatile restaurant; Inazia, a sanctuary of Pan-Asian pleasures; and Plunge, the elegant poolside bar.

Also Read: Easter 2024: Estella to JW Cafe, Mumbai’s top restaurants for best Sunday brunch

Caraway Kitchen At The Conrad

A variety of granitas are available for adults to pick from in addition to the customary Easter activities for kids, such as treasure hunts, egg painting and eating Easter eggs and bunnies. Traditional holiday favourites including Stuffed Roast Turkey, Tenderloin Wellington, and everything from the live grilled cuisine are also available at the buffet.

JW Marriott Hotel

Along with some entertaining Easter activities, the JW Kitchen at the JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has designed a unique Easter Sunday Brunch buffet. Set against the backdrop of a live band, guests can indulge in a leisurely brunch from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Guests can indulge in a lavish spread of dishes meticulously curated. Delight the taste buds with an array of flavours including the JW Garden Harvest – a colourful medley of roasted vegetables, Blossom Greens offering a refreshing mix of fresh spring greens, and the refreshing Spring Pea & Mint Soup.  The brunch costs ₹  2,000 + taxes for kids and non-alcoholic brunch for adults is available at ₹ 4,000 + taxes.  The price of an alcoholic brunch is 5500 + taxes.

Hyatt Centric

Going for a slightly unconventional approach, anticipate all the standard fare along with an abundance of salads, burgers and seafood. There will be a variety of salads, as well as pancetta-wrapped oysters, grilled artichokes, bell pepper shooters, almond-crusted barramundi with lobster butter sauce, cannelloni with spinach and walnuts, and a light berry pavlova.

Shangri-La

Food from all across the world is available, including unique Easter dishes like Brioche Easter Pate, Sticky Onions & Cheddar Quiche, Coffee & Plum Glazed Ham, Hot Cross Buns and Easter Bunny Rolls. You can finish it off with some delicious sweets and carefully mixed cocktails from the mixologist.

Also Read: Easter 2024: Date, history and significance

Grand Mercure

Easter Brunch at By The Blue will feature a variety of dishes and drinks, including exotic fruits, Sourdough Stuffed Roast Chicken, cocktails, Fish Roulade, Hot Cross Buns, Marzipan Berry Cake, and Strawberry Frangipane Tart. Apart from its culinary selection, the restaurant has organised enjoyable events like an Easter Egg Hunt and Egg Decorating.

1Q1

This weekend, this popular Asian destination is hosting an Easter Brunch. The specialties include Tie-Dye Easter Cheesecake and Easter Eggs. You may also select delicious grilled lamb, chicken, beef, and prawns.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Households wasted 1 billion meals a day in 2022, says UN report

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Households around the world binned one billion meals a day in 2022, the United Nations has said. The global organisation has called it a “global tragedy” of food waste. In its latest Food Waste Index Report, the UN stated that over $1 trillion worth of food was thrown away by businesses and households when about 800 million people were going hungry.

In 2022, over 1 billion tonnes of food — which is nearly one-fifth of the produce available on the global market — was wasted by people, most of it by households, news agency AFP reported.

Such a huge quantity of food wastage was not just a moral but ‘environmental failure,’ the UN report, co-authored with non-profit organisation WRAP, stated.

“Food waste is a global tragedy. Millions will go hungry today as food is wasted across the world,” Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Programme, said.

Food waste necessitates the conversion of vast areas of land for the production of crops that are never eaten and it emits five times as many greenhouse gases into the atmosphere as the aviation industry.

It is just the second report compiled by the UN on global food waste and gives a more complete picture to date.

Clementine O’Connor from UNEP noted that as data collection has improved, the true scale of the food wastage problem has become much clearer.

The UN report further mentions that the ‘billion meals’ figure is just a “very conservative estimate”, while “the real amount could be much higher”.

Richard Swannell from WRAP said people can feed those who are hungry in the world “just from the food that is wasted every single year”.

The report further noted that restaurants, canteens, hotels and other food chains were responsible for 28% of all wasted food in 2022, while retailers like greengrocers and butchers dumped 12%.

However, the biggest culprits were the households, as they accounted for 60% and dumped some 631 million tonnes of food.

One of the major reasons behind this was that people were buying more food than they needed, and they even misjudged portion sizes and did not prefer eating the leftovers.

Expiration dates were another reason behind the food wastage.

Mainly in developing countries, a lot of food was not so frivolously wasted, but instead, it was lost in transportation or spoiling because of lack of refrigeration, the report stated.

It stated that contrary to popular belief, food wastage was not just a rich country problem and was observed worldwide, adding that this has had ‘devastating effects’ on the planet and the people.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow