‘Street food culture growing in state’

Kozhikode: A large number of  people in the metros and cities around the globe depend on street food.  A  recent survey undertaken by the Economics and Statistics wing of the state government has cited the rapid growth of ‘Thattukadas’ or wayside eateries in a span of three years.

Among the 14 districts in the state, Kollam has the  highest number of Thattukadas ( 1,553) followed by Palakkad (1,266).  Wayanad and Idukki  have  fewer outlets due to the night traffic ban.

Across the state, there are 11,033 Thattukadas. Among the municipal corporations, Thiruvananthapuram tops with 645 and the lowest number is in Thrissur with 237 units.

According to the food safety officials,  though   fast food is welcome  because it is economical, the hygienic condition of such joints is  not good.   

“The survey points out that out of the 11,033 outlets, 80 percent run  without licence or a  certificate issued from the food and safety department,” a senior official said.  

The change in food habits and  less expensive food lead to the mushrooming of street food  shops and they play  a significant role in the local economy by creating employment and support the livelihood of thousands, he added.

The survey also states that  considering the class-wise data,  the  maximum number of units  (2,166)  were started after 2014.