No, shawarma is not banned in India, but restrictions and advisories have been issued regarding its preparation and sale.
While there isn't a nationwide ban, individual states and local authorities have taken actions to regulate the sale of shawarma, particularly focusing on food safety concerns. This is often due to reported cases of food poisoning linked to improperly prepared or stored shawarma.
Here's a breakdown:
- No Nationwide Ban: There is no overarching law in India that prohibits the sale of shawarma across the entire country.
- FSSAI Guidelines: Authorities are advising consumers to purchase shawarma only from establishments that possess a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license. This ensures that the establishment adheres to certain food safety standards.
- Restrictions and Regulations: Specific regions might implement temporary restrictions or enforce stricter regulations on shawarma preparation, storage, and sale based on local food safety concerns. This may include limitations on artificial coloring agents in sauces commonly served with shawarma.
In summary, while shawarma is not banned in India, its sale is subject to regulations and guidelines, primarily focused on ensuring food safety and hygiene. Consumers are advised to purchase shawarma from licensed vendors to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
