Quality Assessment of Food Provided at Indira Canteen in Bangalore
Quality Assessment of Food Provided at Indira Canteen in Bangalore
Quality Assessment of Food Provided at Indira Canteen in Bangalore
Abstract:- The government of Karnataka in India various parts of Bangalore, Indira Canteens aim to ensure
introduced the Indira Canteen program, a significant convenient access for all residents, particularly those living
initiative focused on tackling food security issues and in densely populated areas and near transportation hubs. This
delivering affordable and healthy meals to urban extensive network of canteens plays a pivotal role in
inhabitants. Indira Canteen program contributes to the guaranteeing the availability of nutritious meals to a diverse
broader goal of sustainable urban development by range of urban inhabitants, thereby addressing critical food
addressing the interconnected challenges of poverty, security challenges in the city. The implementation of the
malnutrition, and inequality. This research paper offers a Indira Canteen program reflects a proactive approach by the
thorough evaluation of the food quality served at Indira Karnataka government to address the multifaceted issue of
Canteen establishments in Bangalore. Employing a multi- food insecurity in urban areas. By offering subsidized meals
pronged research approach that encompasses nutritional of high nutritional value, the initiative not only alleviates
analysis, hygiene assessment, taste appraisal, and surveys immediate hunger but also promotes better health outcomes
to gauge customer contentment, the study scrutinizes how and overall well-being among vulnerable populations.
well the program fulfills its aims and safeguards the Moreover, the emphasis on affordability ensures that
welfare of its clientele. The data reveals that 27% of the individuals and families facing financial constraints can
respondents visit Indira Canteen on a daily basis, 37% of access essential sustenance without compromising on quality.
the respondents choose Indira Canteen because of its Beyond its direct impact on food security, the Indira Canteen
affordable prices, and 32% of the respondents also prefer program also serves as a catalyst for social cohesion and
the good quality of food provided by the Indira Canteen. community development. By providing a communal space
where residents from diverse backgrounds can gather and
I. INTRODUCTION share meals, the canteens foster a sense of belonging and
solidarity within neighborhoods. This communal aspect of
The issue of food security presents a significant the initiative helps to strengthen social bonds and promote a
challenge in urban centers, where affordable and nourishing culture of mutual support and cooperation among urban
meals can be elusive for low-income communities. In dwellers. Furthermore, the Indira Canteen program
response to this pressing concern, the Karnataka government contributes to the broader goal of sustainable urban
launched the Indira Canteen program in Bangalore, a city development by addressing the interconnected challenges of
experiencing rapid urbanization. Named after India's former poverty, malnutrition, and inequality. By ensuring that all
Prime Minister, this initiative aims to provide subsidized residents have access to nutritious and affordable meals,
meals to urban residents while prioritizing quality and regardless of their socioeconomic status, the initiative helps
affordability. The success of the Indira Canteen hinges on to reduce disparities and promote inclusive growth within the
several pivotal factors, including the nutritional value of the city. This holistic approach to urban governance underscores
food, adherence to stringent hygiene standards, taste and the importance of integrating social welfare initiatives with
acceptability, and overall customer satisfaction. A thorough broader development strategies to build resilient and
evaluation of these elements is essential to effectively address equitable cities for all. Furthermore, the Indira Canteen
food security concerns and ensure the program's program contributes to the broader goal of sustainable urban
effectiveness. Inspired by the success of the "Amma development by addressing the interconnected challenges of
Unavagam," a food subsidy program implemented by the poverty, malnutrition, and inequality. By ensuring that all
Ministry of Food and Civil Supplies in Tamil Nadu, India, the residents have access to nutritious and affordable meals,
Karnataka Government sought to replicate its achievements regardless of their socioeconomic status, the initiative helps
through the Indira Canteen initiative. Similar efforts include to reduce disparities and promote inclusive growth within the
the "Ahar Yojana" in Odisha. Strategically positioned across city. This holistic approach to urban governance underscores
the importance of integrating social welfare initiatives with satisfied with the taste, hygiene, and nutritional value of the
broader development strategies to build resilient and food.
equitable cities for all. As cities continue to grapple with the
challenges of rapid urbanization and inequality, the Indira Impact of Indira Canteen on Food Security and
Canteen model offers a compelling example of how Nutrition in Bangalore, India by the Food and Agriculture
innovative policies and inclusive governance can create more Organization of the United Nations (FAO) (2019). This study
inclusive and sustainable urban environments. found that the Indira Canteens have had a positive impact on
food security and nutrition in Bangalore.
II. LITERATURE REVIEW
III. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The Indira Canteens are a chain of subsidized food
canteens operated by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara The Indira Canteen program, an initiative launched by
Palike (BBMP), the civic body of Bangalore, India. The the Karnataka government in Bangalore, represents a
canteens were launched in 2017 to provide affordable and significant effort to combat food insecurity and offer
nutritious meals to the urban poor. There have been several affordable meals to urban residents. However, the program's
studies conducted on the quality of food provided at Indira success in achieving its goals largely relies on the quality of
Canteens. A study by the Karnataka Public Health Institute food provided, adherence to hygiene standards, and customer
(KPHI) in 2018 found that the food samples collected from satisfaction. The present study focuses on the assessment of
Indira Canteens were safe for consumption. The study also the food quality at Indira Canteen outlets, with a specific
found that the food met the nutritional standards set by the focus on nutritional value, hygiene practices, taste, and
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). overall customer contentment. It will help to understand the
challenges faced by customers at Indira Canteen which will
Another study, conducted by the Indian Institute of help policymakers understand the ground reality and make
Management Bangalore (IIMB) in 2019, found that the food changes accordingly. This evaluation aims to pinpoint areas
at Indira Canteens was of good quality and was nutritious. for enhancement and provide recommendations to ensure that
The study also found that the canteens were well-maintained Indira Canteen remains a vital player in addressing food
and hygienic. However, there have also been some security while delivering a positive dining experience.
complaints about the quality of food at Indira Canteens. In Furthermore, this research delves into the program's long-
2020, the BBMP received complaints about insects being term financial viability, its cost-effectiveness in mitigating
found in the food at some canteens. The BBMP took action hunger and malnutrition, and its capacity to ensure equitable
against the contractors responsible for these canteens. access across socio-economic groups. The analysis
scrutinizes the efficiency of the program's supply chain,
Here are five specific reviews of literature on the quality inventory management, and the challenges encountered
of food provided at Indira Canteens in Bangalore: during expansion, with an emphasis on optimizing operations
Assessment and Evaluation of Indira Canteen on Food Safety for scalability and effectiveness.
and Food Security in Urban Bengaluru by KOBRA (2022).
This study found that the majority (94.6%) of consumers IV. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
were satisfied with the quality of food at Indira Canteens. The
study also found that the food was safe for consumption and To examine the adherence to hygiene standards during
met the nutritional standards set by the FSSAI. Food Safety food preparation, handling, and service at Indira Canteen
and Quality Assessment of Indira Canteen in Bangalore, India establishments.
by the Journal of Food Science and Technology (2022). This To find customer satisfaction regarding the flavor and
study found that the food samples collected from Indira overall dining experience at Indira Canteen.
Canteens met the microbiological and chemical standards set To analyze the accessibility of Indira Canteen outlets to
by the FSSAI. The study also found that the food handlers at underserved or marginalized communities.
Indira Canteens had good knowledge of food safety practices. To evaluate the environmental sustainability practices of
the program, such as packaging and waste management.
Quality Assessment of Food Provided at Indira Canteen To assess the impact of the Indira Canteen program on the
in Bangalore, India by the International Journal of Food local economy, including employment generation and
Science and Nutrition (2021). This study found that the food support for local food producers.
samples collected from Indira Canteens were of good quality
and met the nutritional standards set by the FSSAI. The study V. SCOPE OF THE STUDY
also found that the food was hygienic and free from any
harmful contaminants. Geographical Scope:
The research is confined to the examination of Indira
Perception on the Quality of Food Provided at Indira Canteen outlets specifically located within the city of
Canteen in Bangalore, India by the Indian Journal of Public Bangalore, Karnataka, India. This focused approach allows
Health (2020). This study found that the majority (87.3%) of for an in-depth assessment of the program's performance in a
consumers were satisfied with the quality of food at Indira particular urban setting, considering the unique demographic,
Canteens. The study also found that the consumers were cultural, and infrastructural factors that characterize
Analysis & Interpretation to the age of 21-25 years, 23.4% to the age of > 30 years and
The above data indicates the age wise classification of 19.8% come under the age of 26-30 years. This shows that
respondents selected for the study. It shows that a maximum maximum respondents are those that are not financially
of 28.6% belongs to the age of < 20 years followed by 28.2% independent choose Indira Canteen.
Analysis & Interpretation respondents are female and the remaining 3.1% of
Graph 2 reveals the gender-wise classification of the respondents come under the other category. Men hold the
respondents selected for the study. It is understood that 53.1% majority because they choose to take parcels home instead of
of the respondents are male whereas 43.8% of the bringing their family along.
Analysis & Interpretation once a week, 21.6% engage occasionally, and 13.6% of
Table 3 indicates that 27.3% respondents engage in the respondents never partake in the activity. This is mainly
activity daily, 18.5% participate 2-3 times a week, 19% go because of the fast delivery services and cheaper prices.
Analysis & Interpretation affordability 36.5% Proximity of location also plays a role for
People’s choices are influenced by various factors, with 18.5% respondents, while positive word of mouth is a
a significant emphasis on quality of food 31.7% and price consideration for 13.3% of respondents.
Analysis & Interpretation disagree, comprising 6.2% who strongly disagree and 6.2%
Approximately 60.3% of respondents agree that Indira who simply disagree, indicating a generally positive
Canteen provides high-quality breakfast, with 27.3% strongly perception of the breakfast quality.
agreeing and 33% simply agreeing. Conversely, 12.3%
Analysis & Interpretation 16.7% disagree, comprising 12.4% who disagree and 4.4%
A majority, 52.9% of respondents, believe that Indira who strongly disagree, overall indicating a generally positive
Canteen provides proper food quality for the price, with perception of the food quality relative to its price at Indira
19.8% strongly agreeing and 33% simply agreeing. While Canteen.
Analysis & Interpretation respondents disagree, comprising 8.8% who disagree and
A substantial 52.4% of respondents agree that Indira 5.3% who strongly disagree. This suggests a generally
Canteen has a good working environment, with 22% strongly positive perception of the working environment at Indira
agreeing and 30.4% simply agreeing. Conversely, 14.1% of Canteen, despite some dissenting opinions.
Analysis & Interpretation comprising 12.7% who disagree and 5.3% who strongly
From the responses, it's notable that 44.1% of disagree. This suggests a mixed perception regarding the
respondents agree that Indira Canteen provides good seating seating arrangement at Indira Canteen outlets, with a slightly
arrangements as per the price, with 18.1% strongly agreeing higher level of agreement than disagreement.
and 26% simply agreeing. However, 18.1% disagree,
Affordability: Canteen can better cater to the diverse needs and preferences
The findings indicate a positive perception of of its customer base, thereby enhancing overall satisfaction
affordability, with 56.4% of respondents agreeing that Indira and loyalty.
Canteen offers food at an affordable price, reflecting
satisfaction with pricing. IX. SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Food Quality Relative to Price: Addressing the issue of assessing the food quality at
A significant majority (52.9%) of respondents believe Indira Canteen in Bangalore involves the implementation of
that Indira Canteen provides proper food quality for the price, a series of solutions aimed at enhancing nutritional content,
indicating overall satisfaction with the balance between improving hygiene standards, refining taste, and elevating
quality and price. customer satisfaction. The following are some
recommendations to address the identified challenges:
Working Environment:
A substantial 52.4% of respondents perceive Indira Nutritional Content Enhancement:
Canteen to have a good working environment, despite some The canteen could collaborate with nutritionists and
dissenting opinions, with 22% strongly agreeing and 30.4% dietitians to craft a menu that meets recommended nutritional
simply agreeing. guidelines, providing balanced meal options. By partnering
with trusted suppliers, they ensure the procurement of fresh,
Customer Service and Wastage Management: high-quality ingredients. Incorporating locally sourced,
The research indicates a generally positive perception of seasonal items enhances the menu's nutritional value. Regular
customer service, with 52% of respondents considering the reviews and updates introduce new, healthy, and culturally
staff polite towards customers. However, opinions are mixed diverse choices, catering to diverse tastes and promoting
regarding wastage management, with 47.5% agreeing that overall wellness.
staff ensure no wastage, 20.3% disagreeing, and 32.2%
remaining neutral, suggesting an area for improvement. Hygiene Standards Improvement:
To uphold impeccable hygiene standards, the canteen
Positive Perception and Customer Satisfaction: could offer comprehensive training programs for its kitchen
The positive perception of food quality, affordability, staff, focusing on food safety practices, personal hygiene, and
and staff interaction suggests that customers are generally sanitation. They could implement a rigorous hygiene
satisfied with their experiences at Indira Canteen. This monitoring system, conducting routine inspections and audits
satisfaction is crucial for building customer loyalty, as to maintain cleanliness. Ensuring the availability of essential
satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend equipment and facilities would further bolster hygiene levels.
the establishment to others. It reflects a strong foundation for By fostering a culture of cleanliness and strict adherence to
long-term relationships between the canteen and its clientele. hygiene protocols among all staff members, the canteen can
guarantee a safe and hygienic environment for food
Areas of Improvement for Enhanced Experience: preparation and service.
While the overall perception is positive, addressing
areas of improvement such as seating arrangements, menu Taste Enhancement:
customization, and food waste management can further For enhancing taste and flavor, the canteen could
elevate the customer experience. For example, optimizing partner with professional chefs or culinary experts to refine
seating layouts to maximize comfort and space utilization can recipes and cooking techniques. They could conduct taste
enhance customer comfort and convenience. Offering more tests and gather feedback from customers to understand their
diverse menu customization options can cater to varying preferences and areas for improvement. By using fresh herbs,
tastes and preferences, increasing customer satisfaction. spices, and seasonings, they can elevate the taste of dishes
Additionally, implementing effective food waste without compromising nutritional value. Introducing special
management practices not only aligns with sustainability dishes or seasonal menus periodically would engage
goals but also demonstrates a commitment to responsible customers and keep the dining experience exciting and
business practices, which can positively influence consumer flavorful.
perception.
Continuous Monitoring and Quality Control:
Tailoring Strategies to Demographic Preferences: To ensure top-notch quality and service, the canteen
Understanding demographic preferences and the factors could set up a specialized quality control team to oversee food
influencing choices is essential for developing targeted prep, hygiene, and customer service. They could regularly
strategies to meet the needs of different consumer segments. check and audit their processes to keep up with high-quality
For instance, if younger demographics prioritize affordability standards. By monitoring and documenting adherence to
and convenience, promotional offers and mobile ordering nutritional guidelines, they can ensure that meals are
options can be introduced to appeal to this segment. On the nutritious and meet recommended standards, enhancing
other hand, if older demographics prioritize food quality and customer satisfaction and well-being.
ambiance, investing in premium ingredients and enhancing
the dining atmosphere can be prioritized. By aligning
strategic decisions with demographic preferences, Indira