Worm Found in Vande Bharat Food Reignites Train Journey Safety Debate
The recent discovery of a worm in food served aboard the premium Vande Bharat Express has once again highlighted significant concerns regarding food safety during train journeys. While the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) asserts that it has enhanced its services over the years, such incidents underscore a persistent issue: when it comes to hygiene and quality, homemade food remains the most reliable and trustworthy option for travelers.
In light of this, we have compiled a comprehensive list of 10 safe and healthy homemade food choices that are not only nutritious but also boast a longer shelf life, making them ideal for extended train trips. These options prioritize freshness and minimize the risk of spoilage, ensuring a pleasant and worry-free travel experience.
1. Stuffed Parathas
Parathas stuffed with ingredients like methi (fenugreek) or sattu, and prepared without onion and garlic, are both filling and travel-friendly. To maintain their soft texture, apply a light layer of ghee before packing. Pair them with pickle instead of curd to avoid any risk of spoilage during the journey.
2. Lemon Rice
This classic South Indian dish is an excellent choice for train travel due to its tangy and light nature. The use of oil and spices such as mustard seeds and curry leaves helps extend its shelf life. Adding roasted peanuts provides an extra crunch and boosts nutritional value, making it a satisfying meal option.
3. Aloo Bhujiya and Poori
A beloved travel staple, this combination features a dry sabzi made with mustard oil, cumin seeds, green chilli, salt, and turmeric to avoid moisture. Serve it with ajwain namak wali poori, where the dough is kneaded with milk to keep the pooris soft for an extended period, ensuring a delicious and durable meal.
4. Vegetable Cold Sandwiches
Perfect for breakfast or as an evening snack, these sandwiches are popular across all age groups. Use white bread with trimmed edges, and fill with a mixture of grated carrot, cucumber, and salted butter, seasoned with salt and pepper. Avoid mayonnaise to prevent spoilage, and wrap them in foil to preserve freshness throughout the trip.
5. Vegetable Pulao
Although this rice dish has a relatively shorter shelf life, it serves as a no-fuss, nutrient-rich option for train journeys. Prepared as a one-pot meal with rice, vegetables, and spices, pack it in an airtight container and accompany it with a small portion of dry pickle to enhance flavor and longevity.
6. Thepla
Originating from Gujarat, thepla is made with whole wheat flour, spices, and seasonal greens like spinach, fenugreek, beetroot, or lauki. When cooked properly, it stays fresh for hours without refrigeration, making it an ideal traveling snack. Pair it with pickle and a cup of chai for a complete and comforting experience.
7. Roasted Snacks
This category includes healthy, non-perishable options such as roasted chana, makhana, peanuts, and salted seeds. Easy to prepare and pack, these snacks are rich in protein and perfect for guilt-free munching without concerns about hygiene or spoilage during your journey.
8. Fresh Fruits
Carrying fresh fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges is a simple yet effective way to stay hydrated and nourished. They require no preparation and are easy to transport. Ensure they are packed separately to avoid bruising or spoilage from pressure, and always wash them thoroughly before consumption.
9. Bhel
For a light evening snack paired with chai, mix roasted flattened rice, puffed rice, peanuts, salt, pepper, roasted curry leaves, chana, and chilli. This dish has minimal oil content and is high in fiber, making it a filling and healthy option that can be prepared quickly and stored easily.
10. Homemade Sweets or Energy Bites
If you have a sweet tooth, avoid packaged options like soan papdi, peda, or laddoo available on trains. Instead, opt for homemade sweets such as besan ladoo, dry fruit ladoo, or chikki. These treats have a longer shelf life and provide quick energy, as they are typically made with healthy ingredients like ghee, nuts, besan, atta, and jaggery or sugar.
By choosing these homemade alternatives, travelers can significantly reduce the risks associated with food safety on trains, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Always prioritize proper packing and storage techniques to maximize freshness and minimize waste.
