The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji (SSDPS Fiji) has thrown its support behind concerns raised by the Consumer Council of Fiji over food preparation practices at restaurant outlets that may mislead consumers, particularly those observing religious dietary restrictions.
SSDPS Fiji said such practices are misleading and unacceptable for Sanatan followers who strictly adhere to vegetarian diets based on religious principles.
National President Dhirendra Nand stressed that transparency in food preparation is a fundamental consumer right.
“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,” Mr Nand said.
The Sabha is now calling on relevant authorities to investigate food preparation practices at restaurant outlets and ensure accountability where breaches are identified.
In addition, SSDPS Fiji announced it is taking proactive steps to introduce a SSDPS Fiji Certification for vegetarian products. The certification aims to allow Sanatan followers to confidently identify and purchase food items that fully comply with Sanatan dietary standards.
The organisation has urged all Sanatan followers and the wider community to support the initiative by choosing vegetarian products that carry the Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji Certification.
“This will not only protect consumers but also encourage businesses to maintain transparency and respect for cultural and religious values,” the Sabha said.
Mr Nand described the initiative as a broader call to action for both businesses and authorities.
“This is a call to action for both businesses and authorities: clarity, honesty, and respect for religious practices are non-negotiable. SSDPS Fiji will work tirelessly to ensure that vegetarian products are certified and trusted by our community nationwide,” he said.
