On 14th August 2024, Sri S. Ramasamy Naidu Memorial College, Sattur, Tamil Nadu, successfully conducted a Food Safety Awareness Programme titled “Spot the Fake, Protect the Real”. The event was a joint initiative of the Department of Chemistry, the National Service Scheme (NSS) and the Citizen Consumer Club. The programme aimed to educate and empower students and faculty about the critical importance of food safety and the identification of counterfeit food products.
The programme featured two distinguished resource persons:
- Mr S. Ganesh Ram, Junior Analyst at FSOW
- Mr Lakshmana Prakash, Lab Technician from the Food Analysis Laboratory, Palayamkottai
The experts delivered insightful presentations on the methods and techniques used to detect counterfeit food items, the dangers posed by such products, and the essential steps consumers can take to ensure they are purchasing and consuming genuine food products. Their expertise provided the attendees with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in food safety, particularly in the context of the growing prevalence of food adulteration.
The interactive session that followed the presentations allowed participants to engage with the speakers, ask questions and discuss various scenarios related to food safety. The resource persons offered practical advice on safeguarding oneself from fake products and stressed the importance of vigilance and consumer awareness in protecting public health. The event was well-received by all participants, who appreciated the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on a topic of significant relevance. The session not only raised awareness but also reinforced the college’s commitment to fostering responsible consumer behaviour and promoting public health.
The Food Safety Awareness Programme was a resounding success, serving as a vital educational platform for the college community. It highlighted the critical role of informed consumers in combating the menace of counterfeit food products, thereby contributing to a safer and healthier society.
