Recent food safety incidents have led to an upsurge in regulatory scrutiny of India’s HORECA sector, underscoring the importance of partnering with an expert like ALS, a global leader in food safety testing and compliance with laboratories throughout India.

In one incident earlier this year, health inspectors discovered contaminated tea powder in a hotel at a popular coastal tourist destination. The inspection was part of a larger investigation of food safety practices in the city’s HORECA industry. Among the food service providers audited, nearly 60% were found to have violated food safety standards.

Similar HORECA industry inspections across India this year have identified violations that have led to fines, license suspensions, and even business closures.

“These audits highlight the critical importance of adhering to FSSAI regulations to avoid penalties, corrective mandates, and reputational damage,” said Arun Janakiraman, Managing Director, ALS in India.

Compliance is not optional

While license type and operational scale vary from region to region, FSSAI food safety licensing and registration is mandatory nationwide. Compliance with these regulations requires:

·       Submitting to audits as per the FSSAI’s Food Safety Auditing Regulations for high-risk and centrally licensed establishments, including regular inspections covering hygiene, food handling, storage and staff training

·       Water and food testing to meet IS 10500, conducted through NABL-accredited or FSSAI-recognized laboratories, covering raw materials, cooked foods, and potential contaminants including microbiological hazards, pesticides, heavy metals and adulterants

·       Staff training and certification mandated under FSSAI Training Regulations to help ensure proper handling and supervision

·       Maintenance of proper documentation including up-to-date licenses, audit records, SOPs, and testing records in line with best practices for safeguarding public health.

“The importance and complexity of compliance mean that ensuring food safety requires more than just understanding the regulatory environment,” Arun explained.

“Businesses can help protect the public and their interests by being proactive and partnering with us to handle every aspect of their food safety regulatory adherence.”

ALS – a partner you can trust to help navigate the regulatory road ahead

ALS has a strong track record of leadership in supporting its partners in food safety and regulatory adherence. The company’s NABL-accredited laboratories and FSSAI-recognized testing services help food businesses meet the stringent requirements of India’s Food Safety and Standards Act.

ALS’ professional support services for the HORECA industry include:

•                 Comprehensive testing of raw materials and cooked/prepared foods

•                 FSSAI compliance audits and documentation support

•                 Water quality testing and hygiene assessments

•                 Staff training and certification assistance

•                 Hygiene audits and third-party audit support.

By partnering with ALS to provide these services, establishments can proactively manage risks, align operations with national standards, and strengthen consumer trust.

“At ALS in India, we’re not just testing food products for our customers,” added Arun. “We are building trust across the supply chain. From lab bench to dining table, our approach aligns with India’s ambition for safe, transparent and resilient food systems."

To find out how ALS can help you get ahead of regulatory challenges, contact  alsin.sales@alsglobal.com / padma.priya@alsglobal.com

Antara Cruises, India’s leading name in luxury river journeys, has launched Antara Events, a bespoke celebration concept aboard its elegant all-suite boutique ship, the MV Bengal Ganga. Designed for intimate gatherings and grand occasions alike, this offering reimagines milestone celebrations, corporate events, and pre- or post-wedding functions with Antara’s signature personalized service and scenic charm along the Ganges.

Blending heritage with sophistication, the MV Bengal Ganga draws inspiration from traditional Burmese river vessels and the eclectic design spirit of the 1970s. Its warm teakwood interiors, expansive lounges, and open sundecks create a stunning ambience for open-air ceremonies, cocktail evenings, or serene riverside soirees. The 20 suites onboard exude an old-world charm, complete with spacious balconies offering uninterrupted views of India’s most iconic river.

For corporate and business gatherings, the ship offers a fully equipped lounge with modern AV facilities and Wi-Fi, ideal for meetings, team retreats, or off-site conferences in an exclusive, club-like atmosphere.

Staying true to Antara Cruises’ philosophy of all-inclusive hospitality, every Antara Event is designed to be a complete sensory experience. “From the moment guests step aboard, they are immersed in a world of curated dining — from regional Indian delicacies to international favourites, alongside wellness experiences like spa treatments and sunrise yoga. Every detail is crafted to ensure a seamless, memorable event,” says Raj Singh, Founder Chairman of Antara Cruises.

At the heart of Antara Events lies full customization. From décor and cuisine to music and onboard experiences, every element is tailored in collaboration with hosts and event designers. Even sailing routes can be customized, transforming each voyage into a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Guests can choose from short three-hour sailings for quick celebrations or immersive multi-night voyages that explore historic riverside towns and cultural landmarks along the Ganges. For something truly unforgettable, Antara Events also offers Sandbank Parties on sailings of two nights or more — a rare and magical experience under the stars.

“At Antara Cruises, we don’t just host events; we curate legacies,” adds Raj Singh. “Every celebration is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the host’s vision and the timeless beauty of the Ganges.”

Departing from Kolkata, the MV Bengal Ganga is available for private charters, perfect for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, corporate launches, or family reunions.

About Anatara Cruises:

Antara River Cruises is a pioneer in luxury river hospitality and a preferred partner for leading international cruise operators. The brand operates four boutique ships on the Ganges and is expanding its footprint in 2025 with four eco-friendly catamarans in Orissa’s Bhitarkanika National Park. Each ship reflects India’s artistic and cultural essence while embracing sustainability, with a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Known for hyperlocal cuisine, warm service, and elegant design, Antara Cruises continues to redefine slow travel — where guests unpack once, pay once, and sail into a world of comfort, culture, and connection.

The International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, is all set to host its 40th Bi-Annual Convocation at Holiday Inn, Aerocity — a milestone moment that also marks 20 incredible years of shaping India’s culinary future. The celebration will see industry leaders, proud alumni, faculty, and students come together to applaud the achievements of the graduating class of 2025 and the institute’s remarkable journey in redefining culinary education in India.

The event will be graced by Dr. Pushpesh Pant, Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s most respected food historians and critics, as the Chief Guest. Also joining as Honoured Guest and Distinguished Speaker is Mr. Vikrant Batra, Co-Founder of Café Delhi Heights, alongside other distinguished names from the hospitality and education sectors.

Founded in 2005 under the visionary guidance of Chef Virender S. Datta, a hospitality veteran with over five decades of experience, and Mr. Arjun S. Datta, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director, IICA has become a benchmark for culinary excellence. The duo’s leadership has driven both academic depth and operational innovation, taking Indian culinary education to international standards.

Over the years, IICA has built strong global affiliations with City & Guilds (UK), World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS, Paris), and BSI Learning Australia, offering students career pathways that extend well beyond borders. Their efforts have also been recognised with prestigious honours, including the FICCI Higher Education Excellence Award 2025 for “Excellence in Creating Employment & Entrepreneurship (Private)” and the Best Culinary Institute in India 2025 title at the Food Connoisseurs India Awards.

The convocation evening will feature inspiring speeches, student showcases, and the ceremonial awarding of diplomas, culminating in a high-tea reception celebrating the next generation of culinary professionals. Sponsors supporting the event include Carna Medical Database Pvt. Ltd. in association with Tsukuba & House as Principal Sponsors, MainDish.in as Gifting Sponsor, and KIC™ Hotel & Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers as Associate Sponsors.

As IICA marks this milestone, it continues to uphold its mission of empowering culinary talent through hands-on training, international exposure, and a deep respect for India’s rich gastronomic heritage.

About IICA:

Established in 2005, the International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, is one of India’s top culinary institutes offering globally recognised programs in Culinary and Patisserie Arts. Backed by collaborations with City & Guilds (UK), BSI Learning Australia, and WACS (Paris), IICA blends international standards with Indian flavours, nurturing future chefs who now lead across hospitality, entrepreneurship, and global fine dining. Recognised by the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council of India, IICA continues to shape careers with its balanced approach of practical learning and global exposure.