Eating on Indian Railways? 10 tips to ensure food safety and hygiene

A recent incident on Indian Railways, where a Delhi resident found a centipede in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) meal served at a VIP lounge, has raised serious concerns about food hygiene on trains and railway stations. This alarming case is just one example among a growing number of complaints related to the quality and safety of food served by Indian Railways and its partners. With hygiene-related complaints rising significantly, passengers need to be vigilant to avoid risks like food poisoning during their journey.

Although Indian Railways has taken steps to improve food safety—such as partnering with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for inspections and certifications—incidents like this highlight that challenges remain. Here are essential tips to help you avoid food poisoning and stay safe while enjoying a meal on your train journey.

Tips for safe eating on Indian trains:

1. Opt for freshly prepared and hot meals
Whenever possible, choose freshly prepared, hot meals over pre-packaged or pre-cooked items that might have been stored for hours. Food that is hot is generally safer because the heat kills most bacteria. Pantry car kitchens on express trains often serve freshly cooked food, and hot items purchased at stations are usually safer than those that have been left out for extended periods.

2. Use e-catering for reliable food choices
Take advantage of e-catering services available on Indian Railways, which allow you to order food from established restaurants and well-rated vendors. Platforms like Zomato (in partnership with IRCTC) offer delivery to your train seat at select stations. These vendors follow FSSAI guidelines, making e-catering a safer and more varied option than traditional pantry car food. You can also order food from a restaurant of your choice after checking reviews and ratings.

3. Inspect food packaging carefully
Make sure any packaged food you purchase is sealed and undamaged. Look for tamper-proof seals or sealed containers that ensure the food hasn’t been exposed. If you notice a broken seal or loose packaging, it’s best to avoid it. Safe packaging is especially important for pre-packaged snacks and bottled drinks.

4. Check the freshness of the food
Always inspect food for any signs of spoilage, such as unusual odour, off-colour, or strange texture. If the food smells sour, tastes strange, or has an unusual appearance, it may be contaminated and should be avoided. Also, avoid perishable foods that could spoil quickly, especially if they’ve been sitting out for a while.

5. Choose trusted vendors and certified stations
Certain railway stations have been awarded "Eat Right Station" certifications by FSSAI, which means these locations meet high standards for food safety and hygiene. When purchasing food from vendors at stations, opt for these certified locations if possible. Stations with the Eat Right certification are more likely to provide safe and hygienic food options.

6. Maintain personal hygiene and use clean utensils
Always wash your hands thoroughly before eating. If clean water isn’t available, use a hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes to clean your hands. If possible, use clean utensils instead of touching food directly with your hands to reduce the risk of transferring germs to your food.

7. Stay hydrated with bottled or boiled water only
Drinking clean water is essential to avoid foodborne illnesses. Buy sealed bottled water from reliable sources on the train or at stations. Look for known brands or Rail Neer Packaged Drinking Water by IRCTC. Avoid unsealed water containers or refills from unauthorized vendors. If bottled water isn’t available, opt for hot beverages like tea or coffee, which are typically made with boiled water.

8. Report food quality issues promptly
If you encounter any issues with food quality, report it immediately. Indian Railways provides several channels for lodging complaints, including the IRCTC helpline (1800-111-321) and IRCTC’s social media accounts. Documenting these concerns can prompt action and improve conditions for future passengers.

9. Be cautious with raw and perishable foods
Avoid foods that are raw or perishable, as they are more likely to carry harmful bacteria. This includes items like salads, sandwiches, and dairy-based desserts. Stick to food that has been cooked thoroughly and avoid anything that could spoil quickly, especially in warm weather.

10. Stay updated on IRCTC hygiene standards
Indian Railways continues to enhance hygiene and food quality standards through initiatives like CCTV monitoring in kitchens, third-party audits, and certified hygiene protocols. Keep an eye out for updates about new hygiene programs or certifications and choose vendors and meal options that align with these standards.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can reduce the risk of food poisoning while travelling by train. While Indian Railways is working to improve food hygiene, personal precautions remain essential. With safe choices and a little extra caution, you can enjoy your train journey and avoid foodborne illnesses.