Masala dosa debate in Kerala sheds light on lack of regulation on size, quantity, pricing

Kochi: A customer who was dissatisfied with the quantity and quality of food served at a local hotel in Thrissur, has raised concerns about the lack of regulation in the food industry. Despite filing complaints with both the Legal Metrology and Food Safety Departments, he was told that no legal action could be taken regarding the reduced portion sizes and the prices being charged.

P B Satheesh, the complainant, regularly dines at the hotel in Kodakara, Thrissur. He was disappointed when he was served a masala dosa with only a small amount of masala at the edge of the dosa, which he felt was smaller than the typical serving size. The hotel charged Rs 74 for the meal, which Satheesh considered overpriced for the portion size. Similarly, he was charged Rs 74 for a puri that was only the size of a ‘pappada vada,’ a type of crisp. Feeling cheated, he filed complaints with both the Legal Metrology and Food Safety Departments.

Departments’ response

The Legal Metrology Department replied, stating that no action could be taken under the Legal Metrology Act or its related rules regarding the quantity, weight, and price of food items served in hotels. This left Satheesh frustrated, as he felt that the reduced portions were unfair to consumers.

The Food Safety Department also declined to take any action, stating that the issue raised by Satheesh did not fall under its purview. The complainant claims that despite raising the issue with the supply office, no resolution was provided.

IRCTC leads the way with transparent food pricing

While local hotels may not be held accountable, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has taken steps to ensure transparency in food pricing. At the IRCTC Food Plaza at Ernakulam South Railway Station, the exact weight and price of each item is displayed. For instance, a masala dosa at the plaza weighs 80 grams, with an additional 80 grams of masala, and 50 grams each of chutney and sambar. This masala dosa is priced at Rs 90. Puri masala, according to regulations, must consist of two puris weighing 30 grams each and 150 grams of masala, costing Rs 80 in total.

Call for statewide regulation

During the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, the Collector ordered that food sold in Pathanamthitta district must have the weight and price recorded. P B Satheesh has suggested that this practice be extended across the state.