CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Food Safety department has made it mandatory for idiyappam vendors to obtain a valid food safety licence before selling the popular staple across the State.

Idiyappam is widely sold in several districts, particularly during early morning and late evening hours. In recent weeks, authorities have observed a sharp rise in the number of idiyappam vendors operating in Chennai and its suburban pockets. However, the department received complaints that in certain areas idiyappam was being prepared and sold without adhering to basic hygiene and safety norms.

Acting on these inputs, the Food Safety department has directed all idiyappam sellers to register formally and obtain a food safety licence. Officials said the licence can be obtained online for free and must be renewed annually.

The department has also issued a set of hygiene guidelines for vendors. Idiyappam must be prepared using safe, quality ingredients under clean conditions, officials said, stressing that food handlers should ensure proper personal hygiene at all stages of preparation and sale. Vendors have been instructed to wear gloves, head covers and other protective gear while handling food meant for public consumption.

Special instructions have been issued to vendors selling idiyappam using bicycles and two-wheelers, asking them to strictly follow food safety protocols during preparation, transport and sale.

The department has further advised that individuals suffering from fever, infectious diseases or those with weakened immunity should refrain from engaging in food vending activities.

The department further said the measures are intended not to discourage small vendors, but to ensure safe, hygienic food reaches consumers, while bringing unregulated street food practices under a standardised safety framework.