Coimbatore restaurants adapt to ban on mayonnaise made from raw eggs
Following Tamil Nadu government's ban on the use of mayonnaise made from raw eggs, food business operators (FBOs) in Coimbatore have adapted to the regulation. The one-year ban, in effect since April 8, 2025, is intended to prevent food-borne illnesses caused by microbial contamination.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had cited risks associated with raw egg-based mayonnaise, which can be a breeding ground for pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enteritidis, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes, especially when not stored at recommended temperatures (0–5°C).
In a promising development, the ban appears to have had limited economic impact on eateries in Coimbatore due to the availability of alternatives and increasing public awareness. Many restaurant owners report that customers are more conscious about food safety and are willing to accept minor taste differences or price increases if safety is ensured.
According to Ramesh Babu, General Manager of restaurant chain Cockraco in the city, the switch had been made well in advance as it moved to eggless mayonnaise over three years ago.
'We procure in bulk from trusted manufacturers. Any hotelier's concern must be to provide good quality and hygienic food. If the mayonnaise costs a bit more, the food item can cost a bit more too - a shawarma that was ₹ 100 can be sold at ₹ 120. Customers are willing to pay for safety', he said.
He also noted a behavioural shift among consumers. 'Earlier, customers would request multiple servings of mayonnaise. That demand has reduced significantly', he said.
Shruthi S., who runs Momolicious in the city, said her team uses boiled egg whites as a viable substitute. 'Customers initially noticed the difference in taste, but have adjusted. The business has not been affected economically. We have simply explored what we can do differently to ensure that quality and safety go hand in hand', she said.
Customers in the city have also welcomed the change. K. Sneha, 22, from Pappanaickenpalayam said she could not find much difference in the taste of mayonnaise after the ban.
T. Anuradha, FSSAI Designated Officer for Coimbatore, said various steps are being taken to raise awareness on the ban in the city.
'Awareness meetings were held with fast food sellers on Wednesday. Queries of the restaurant owners regarding the mayonnaise ban were resolved, with alternatives being suggested. They received training on essential safety measures, food storage practices and pest control, and were also informed that the FSSAI would take strict action against eateries not complying with the same', said Dr. Anuradha, adding that FBOs have been extremely cooperative towards the change.
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