(General Studies II – Governance section – Statutory, Regulatory and various Quasi-judicial Bodies. Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation.)
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body which plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and wholesome food for Indian consumers. However, recent controversies surrounding food products have raised concerns about the adequacy of FSSAI’s functioning.
- FSSAI was established in 2008 under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 under the administration of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
- The FSSAI regulates the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food articles, while also establishing standards to ensure food safety.
- The FSSAI comprises a chairperson and twenty-two members, out of which one-third are to be women. The chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Central Government.
Powers –
- Framing and enforcing regulations on food safety and standards.
- Licensing and registration of food businesses.
- Laying down procedures for analysis of food samples.
- Recalling or prohibiting the sale of unsafe food and imposing penalties for violations.
Shortcomings of FSSAI –
- Implementation Gap: Despite strong legal backing, FSSAI faces challenges in implementation due to:
- Limited Manpower: There is an acute shortage of licensing and enforcement officers in the states, which severely affects food safety measures.
- Laboratory Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure and capacity for timely and efficient food testing.
- Consumer Awareness: Low level of awareness among consumers about their rights and FSSAI regulations.
- Scientific Approach: Concerns exist regarding the scientific basis for setting certain standards and dealing with emerging food technologies.
- Industry Influence: Potential for industry influence on regulatory decision-making, hindering strict enforcement.
- Furthermore, the number of products listed under FSSAI is very low in India as compared to other countries.
Solutions for Strengthening FSSAI –
- Capacity Building: Increased manpower for inspections, training programs for inspectors, and collaboration with state agencies.
- Strengthening Labs: Upgrading laboratories with advanced technology and expanding their reach for faster and more reliable testing.
- Consumer Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness initiatives to educate consumers about FSSAI regulations and help them to make informed choices.
- Robust Science-based Standards: FSSAI should adopt a more scientific approach to setting food safety standards considering global best practices.
- Transparency and Accountability: Enhanced transparency in decision-making and stricter penalties for violators to deter malpractices.
Ensuring food safety is paramount for protecting public health and fostering consumer trust. A robust food safety framework is crucial for achieving promoting economic growth and ensuring sustainable development, aligning with the global agenda of food security and safety.
