By Admin 
In many states of the country, cheap canteens are being run for the poor and laborers. Among these, Amma Unavagam (Amma Canteen) is quite famous in Tamil Nadu, where idli is available for one rupee and sambar rice is available for five rupees. Similarly, there is Maa Canteen in West Bengal, where pulses, rice, vegetables and eggs are available for five rupees. Similarly, Atal Canteen has also been started in Delhi, where a plate of pulses, rice, vegetables and roti is available for five rupees. Now the question arises whether food available at such a cheap rate is really healthy? Do you know what doctors say about this?
How is Atal Canteen in Delhi?
The Delhi government has started 100 Atal canteens on the birth centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in December 2025. These canteens are in slum areas, construction sites and poor colonies. Here the price of each thali has been kept at only five rupees, whereas the actual cost ranges from Rs 25-30. The remaining subsidy is given by the government. Dal-rice, roti (up to 300 grams), vegetables (100 grams) and pickles are being provided in its menu. Each canteen provides food twice a day (morning and evening) and serves plates to about 1000 people. The cleanliness of food is checked through FSSAI and lab testing.
How is the food in Amma canteen?
These canteens, which have been running since 2013, are still very popular in Tamil Nadu. Among these, Idli is available for one rupee, Pongal for five rupees, Sambhar-Rice, Lemon Rice and Curry Leave Rice for five rupees. At the same time, curd rice is available for three rupees. This food is hygienic, which is prepared by self-help groups of women.
Maa, how best is the canteen?
Maa Canteen was started in West Bengal from 2021. Here rice, pulses and vegetables are available for five rupees. The government gives subsidy in this. This plate proves to be very helpful for the poor, laborers and financially distressed people.
What is the doctor’s opinion on such plates?
According to Dr. Ritika Khera, nutrition expert and food security researcher in Delhi, these canteens are very good. In these, fresh and hot food is available under government schemes, which is healthier than street carts. Their thalis contain carbohydrates (rice/roti), proteins (dal) and vegetables, which help in reducing malnutrition. These canteens are a good way of food security for the poor. It reduces malnutrition and hygiene problems. However, eating only this food for a long time can lead to anemia or vitamin deficiency.
How to check whether food is healthy or not?
The plate available in these canteens should contain pulses (protein), roti/rice (energy), vegetables (vitamins). The canteen should be FSSAI approved. Staff wear gloves and clean water is used. Food should be fresh, hot and tasty. There should not be much oil and spices in these.
Also read: Which fruit is called the Lord of Fruits? You will be surprised to know the name
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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