UP govt directs use of branded materials for food under scheme

LUCKNOW: With a view to ensure good quality of free hot cooked food under Child Development and Nutrition scheme, Uttar Pradesh government today directed use of branded food material in the preparations.

State's Child Development Minister Ram Govind Chaudhary said directives have been issued to officials concerned that food under the Child Development and Nutrition Scheme should be distributed among the children only after its comprehensive and proper checking.

He said directions have also been given that only branded cooking oil, seasoning and iodised salt should be used in preparing the food items to be distributed under the scheme.

They have also been instructed that sub-standard and poor quality oil and spices should not be used, he said, adding that special attention should be on hygiene by ensuring proper cleaning and washing of the raw materials.

He said directions have been given that before serving the food to the children, it should be tasted.

Chaudhary warned all Child Development Project officers, Sevikas and Anganwadi workers that any laxity in implementing these directives would invite strict action.

23 children died in Bihar due to contamination of food served under midday meal scheme.