India Enhances Food Safety with New Initiatives
The Government of India is taking significant steps to bolster food safety through the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Established under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act of 2006, the FSSAI is responsible for setting science-based standards for food products and regulating their manufacture and distribution. Recently, the FSSAI introduced the “National Annual Surveillance Plan” for 2023-24, aimed at improving food safety monitoring across the country.
Strengthening Food Safety Regulations
The FSSAI plays a crucial role in ensuring that food products are safe for consumption. It enforces the FSS Act through Food Safety Commissioners in various states and Union Territories. These officials conduct regular inspections, audits, and random sampling to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. The introduction of the National Annual Surveillance Plan marks a proactive approach to monitoring food safety, focusing on staple foods and commodities prone to adulteration. This initiative is designed to enhance the effectiveness of food safety measures and ensure that consumers have access to safe and wholesome food.
In addition to central oversight, state and Union Territory administrations are empowered to implement their own surveillance and enforcement strategies. These localized efforts are tailored to address specific food trends, consumption patterns, and regional issues such as food adulteration. By combining national and local initiatives, the FSSAI aims to create a comprehensive framework for food safety across India.
Mobile Food Testing Laboratories Expand Reach
To further enhance food safety, the FSSAI has deployed Mobile Food Testing Laboratories (MFTLs), also known as “Food Safety on Wheels.” Currently, 285 of these units operate across 35 states and Union Territories. Equipped with essential testing infrastructure, including “Milk-o-Screen” equipment, MFTLs can conduct on-the-spot tests for key quality parameters in milk, such as fat content, protein levels, and potential adulterants like added water and urea.
These mobile units are particularly beneficial in rural and remote areas, where access to food safety resources may be limited. By providing testing and training programs, the MFTLs help raise awareness about food safety among local populations. This initiative not only improves food quality but also empowers communities to take an active role in ensuring the safety of their food supply.
Accountability in the Food Supply Chain
Under the FSS Act, Food Business Operators (FBOs) are responsible for maintaining full traceability of food products throughout the supply chain. This includes keeping accurate records from raw material procurement to the delivery of finished goods. The FSSAI conducts inspections and audits to verify compliance with these requirements, ensuring transparency and accountability in food safety practices.
In cases of violations, appropriate regulatory actions are taken to uphold food safety standards. This rigorous approach is essential for building consumer trust and ensuring that food products meet safety and quality expectations. The FSSAI’s commitment to accountability is a cornerstone of its mission to protect public health.
Support for Dairy Development
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying is also making strides in enhancing food safety through the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD). This initiative focuses on improving infrastructure for quality milk testing and primary chilling facilities. Financial support is provided to cooperatives and milk producer institutions for acquiring Automatic Milk Collection Units (AMCU) and Data Processing Milk Collection Units (DPMCU). These measures aim to ensure transparency in milk collection processes at the village level.
The FSSAI has established uniform standards for milk and milk products under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. These standards apply to all FBOs, including dairy cooperatives, ensuring compliance across the board. The FSSAI actively seeks feedback from the public and stakeholders when developing or amending standards, fostering a collaborative approach to food safety.
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