Kolkata, 18 November 2025: ITC Ltd.’s Sunrise Spices, one of the leading spice brands in Eastern India, has launched its flagship CSR initiative — the Sunrise Swasthya Pradesh Program, a large-scale community outreach campaign aimed at promoting food safety, combating adulteration, and fostering healthier communities across the country.
Implemented in collaboration with the NGO Rajabazar Education and Awareness Development Society (READS), the program will be rolled out across West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam and Andhra Pradesh, reaching millions of households, food handlers, and community members.
The ambitious initiative operates through two key pillars addressing food safety from the grassroots to community level.
1. Strengthening Food Safety Among Caterers, Cooks and Street Vendors
Recognising the vital role of food handlers who serve lakhs at weddings, fairs and festive gatherings, the program aims to build scientific awareness and safe food practices among this community.
Under this component, specialised FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) sessions aligned with FSSAI guidelines will be conducted for caterers, cooks and street food vendors. After the training and assessment, eligible participants will receive official FoSTaC certification — enhancing their professional credibility and reinforcing consumer trust.
Over time, this initiative is expected to significantly benefit consumers by ensuring that food served at social and cultural gatherings is not only delicious but also safe and hygienic.
2. Empowering 1.5 Million Women to Combat Food Adulteration
The second pillar focuses on sensitising and empowering over 1.5 million women across 10 districts of West Bengal.
Participants will receive the FSSAI DART (Detection of Adulteration by Rapid Test) booklet, IEC materials on reading labels, and adulteration testing kits, enabling them to identify adulterated ingredients and advocate for safer household food choices.
On-ground engagements — including health camps and haat-level activities — will further encourage women to champion safe food practices within their communities.
Leadership Speak
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Piyush Mishra, Business Head, ITC Spices, said:
“Sunrise has been a trusted name in Indian kitchens for decades. With the Swasthya Pradesh Program, we reinforce our commitment to food safety, hygiene and health. By empowering caterers, food vendors and women with knowledge and skills, this initiative goes beyond awareness to transform everyday practices and safeguard the health of millions.”
Dr. Shantanu Das, Vice President & Head of Food Sciences, ITC Ltd, added:
“This program builds a culture of food safety in the country by leveraging FoSTaC modules. By enhancing scientific capacity and awarding certification, we ensure both consumer protection and the credibility of India’s food-handling ecosystem. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering an environment where every meal can be enjoyed with confidence.”
Community Participation and Impact
The launch event saw enthusiastic participation from street food vendors, caterers, and women from surrounding villages, who shared how the program would help uplift communities and promote safe food practices.
Aligned with ITC’s Nutrition strategy to “Help India Eat Better”, the Sunrise Swasthya Pradesh Program reinforces the company’s commitment to providing safe, nutritious food, building sustainable ecosystems and fostering healthier communities nationwide.
