Ahead of the upcoming Vesak and Poson Poya seasons, the Health Ministry said that an increase in food-related health issues can be expected, and that both the public and those conducting ‘dansal’ food distribution programmes should be vigilant about the same.

During a press briefing held by the Ministry’s Health Promotion Bureau on Wednesday (7), the Ministry’s Environmental and Occupational Health and Food Safety Directorate Public Health specialist Dr. Hemali Jayasekera noted that steps are being taken to monitor and guide the conduct of dansal programmes during this period in accordance with the relevant laws including the Food Act, No. 26 of 1980. 

According to her, utmost attention is being paid to food hygiene. “During these festive times, there is a high possibility of food-related illnesses. Our aim is to curb it,” she said, adding that guidelines have already been issued in this regard. She explained that these guidelines pertain to cleanliness of the dansal site, the clean and proper preparation of food, the cleanliness of the drinking water, and a proper garbage disposal process. These regulations apply to the preparation, storage, and distribution of food.

Dr. Jayasekera noted that unregistered dansal programmes will also be inspected by Public Health Inspectors during this period.

All dansal programmes must be registered with the relevant health authorities, and dansal programmes are not allowed to sell food.