The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji (SSDPS Fiji) has expressed its strong endorsement of concerns raised by the Consumer Council of Fiji regarding food preparation methods at restaurant outlets that could mislead consumers, particularly those adhering to religious dietary restrictions. This issue is especially significant for Sanatan followers who maintain strict vegetarian diets rooted in their religious beliefs.
National President Dhirendra Nand emphasized that transparency in food preparation is a fundamental consumer right. He stated, “Transparency is not optional — it is a fundamental requirement. Consumers have the right to know exactly what they are eating, especially when it concerns religious or cultural dietary restrictions. Misleading practices like these compromise faith-based choices and cannot be ignored.”
In response to these concerns, the Sabha is urging relevant authorities to investigate the food preparation practices of restaurants and hold accountable those that breach these important standards. Moreover, SSDPS Fiji is taking proactive measures towards establishing a SSDPS Fiji Certification for vegetarian products. This certification is intended to help Sanatan followers easily identify and purchase food items that align with their dietary standards.
The organization encourages Sanatan followers, along with the broader community, to support this initiative by choosing vegetarian products that bear the SSDPS Fiji Certification. “This will not only protect consumers but also encourage businesses to maintain transparency and respect for cultural and religious values,” they asserted.
Mr. Nand framed this initiative as a broad call to action for both businesses and authorities, highlighting that “clarity, honesty, and respect for religious practices are non-negotiable.” He affirmed that SSDPS Fiji is committed to ensuring that vegetarian products are certified and trustworthy for the community nationwide.
Such steps not only aim to protect the rights of consumers but also promote a greater culture of honesty and respect within the food industry, fostering a communal environment where dietary choices based on faith can be honored and respected.
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