Amma Unavagam canteens, operated by the Greater Chennai Corporation, have made significant changes to their food service in light of rising LPG cylinder prices. The canteens have cut their menu and reduced food portions by nearly half. A worker from Mandaveli mentioned that they have shifted from using four LPG cylinders to just one, necessitating more efficient cooking practices. This has resulted in lower quantities of food being prepared, with many canteens running out of food by 1 PM. The rising costs of dining out have led many locals to rely on these canteens, where an idli costs ₹1 and a plate of pongal or variety rice costs ₹5. Despite the changes, city health officer M Jagadeesan confirmed that there have been no price hikes or menu changes at the Amma canteens, which continue to serve over a hundred people daily. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents amid a broader crisis affecting food affordability in Chennai.