New Delhi. Congress MP Manickam Tagore has raised questions over the food options served on Air India flights by sharing a screenshot of Air India’s website on social media. Tagore asked, “What is Hindu or Muslim food?” and demanded action from the Civil Aviation Ministry, further questioning, “Have people associated with RSS taken over Air India?” It is not clear when religion-based food was added to Air India’s menu. Naming food options based on religion rather than dietary preferences is a matter of concern, especially when Air India’s non-vegetarian food clearly states that they do not serve beef or pork.
Hindu meal, Muslim meal at @airindia flights.
What is Hindu Meal and Muslim Meal?Have Sanghis captured Air India?
hope the new @MoCA_GoI takes action. pic.twitter.com/JTEYWPViYX
— Manickam Tagore .B🇮🇳மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) June 17, 2024
On the Air India website, the Food Experience page provides detailed information about in-flight meals for passengers. “With a variety of options reflecting the richness of Indian and international cuisine, we offer delicious dishes for all,” the page says. While food preferences range from diabetics to kids’ meals, the religion-based food menu has sparked controversy.
Regarding Hindu meals, Air India has mentioned that the menu for Hindu passengers includes chicken, fish, eggs, vegetables, starch or dairy products prepared in Indian culinary style. For Muslim meals, it has said that the menu is prepared in certified halal kitchens as per Muslim dietary requirements.
Special menus for Jain and Jewish communities
Air India also offers specific menus for Jain and Jewish passengers. The menu for the Jewish community is prepared in certified kosher kitchens in accordance with Jewish dietary laws and is available on select international flights. For the Jain community, the menu prepared in Indian cuisine does not include root vegetables such as onion and garlic, as well as any animal products.