The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has expressed significant concerns regarding the quality of food provided to workers, technicians, and artists at various film, television, and digital shooting locations in Mumbai. This issue has prompted the federation to reach out to the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), requesting that surprise inspections be conducted at these filming sites and their catering facilities.

FWICE has reportedly received numerous complaints over the past few years regarding the standard of meals served at shooting locations. The federation has highlighted allegations that the food is often stale, poorly prepared, lacking in nutritional value, and made under unsanitary conditions. Such issues have raised serious health and safety concerns for those who commonly work extended hours on sets.

Ashoke Dubey, General Secretary of FWICE, stated that after receiving repeated grievances from its affiliated unions and members, the organisation felt compelled to approach the FDA. Dubey emphasised the need for workers to receive safe and nutritious meals as a fundamental right, not a privilege, underscoring the extended hours they typically endure in demanding work environments.

Lack of Basic Facilities Underlined

The federation has also pointed out that several filming locations lack essential dining facilities. In some cases, workers are reportedly required to eat in outdoor areas that expose them to adverse weather conditions such as dust, heat, and rain. Moreover, the absence of adequate seating arrangements, designated dining spaces, and access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities has been flagged by FWICE.

Dignity and well-being are paramount for those sustaining the entertainment industry, according to Dubey. The federation is advocating for the FDA to acknowledge these complaints and conduct rigorous inspections, holding production houses and catering agencies responsible for their practices.

The FWICE has formally requested that inspections take place at various locations, including Film City in Goregaon and other sites across Mumbai and its outskirts. FDA officials have been asked to thoroughly examine kitchens, food preparation areas, storage facilities, and catering operations to ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Action Requested for Food Safety Compliance

In its communication to the FDA, FWICE has called for the collection of food samples deemed unsafe, adulterated, or unsuitable for consumption at filming locations. The federation seeks appropriate punitive measures against the producers, caterers, or any agencies found negligent. This proactive approach aims to ensure that necessary steps are taken to uphold hygiene and food safety standards within the industry.

Moreover, the federation has urged the FDA to investigate the adequacy of dining infrastructure at shooting locations and provide essential guidelines for production houses and catering agencies. The objective is to establish and maintain higher standards of hygiene and food safety for all personnel involved in the film and television sectors.

FWICE has expressed its intention to collaborate with the FDA in facilitating these inspections, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring the well-being of those in the entertainment field.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share