Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): A major food safety scandal has sparked a dramatic shift in Kashmir’s eating habits, with vegetarian restaurants witnessing an unprecedented surge in customers after authorities exposed the supply of rotten meat across the Valley.
Kashmir, known for its meat-rich cuisine—from Rogan Josh to Yakhni—is now seeing residents turn towards plant-based meals amid growing mistrust of non-vegetarian food.
“Earlier, vegetarian eateries had a limited clientele, but now our sales have doubled. People are showing more trust in veg food after the rotten meat reports,” said Ramesh Kumar, owner of a Srinagar-based vegetarian restaurant.
Locals echo this shift. Irfan Ahmad from Pulwama admitted, “I was a regular consumer of meat, but after these revelations, my family has decided to prefer vegetables. At least we are sure about the quality.”
Similarly, Naseema Bano from Anantnag said, “Doctors often advise eating less meat for better digestion. This scare has finally pushed us to make that change.”
Hoteliers believe the trend could reshape food culture in the Valley. “This is a chance to promote vegetarianism. It’s not only healthier but also safer given the risks of unhygienic meat,” said Bashir Ahmad, a south Kashmir hotelier.
Butchers, however, insist the problem lies in regulation rather than meat itself. “Kashmiris are meat lovers. A few cases of rotten supplies should not make everyone suspicious. What is needed is strict quality checks,” said a butcher from Baramulla.
Public pressure is mounting on authorities to take strong action. “The government must punish those selling unhygienic meat. Until then, people should be cautious and choose safer options,” said Abdul Rashid, a Srinagar resident.
As investigations continue, one thing is clear: the rotten meat scandal has shaken consumer confidence and opened the door for vegetarian dining to flourish in Kashmir(DD)