Most of us in India have heard about FSSAI. What we know is that it is a government body that ensures Food product standards. But is that it? Lets us try to understand What is FSSAI and Its Role In Ensuring Food Product Standards?
Table of contents
What is FSSAI?
Firstly, the full form of the term FSSAI is Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. Its formation took place under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. The main objective of its creation was to lay down scientific standards to regulate Food articles.
Through these standards, FSSAI controls the manufacture, storage, and distribution of Food Articles. It helps the government in ensuring Food Product Standards throughout the country. Also, this system helps to govern the Food quality of the entire country under one single body. It, in turn, reduces the complications that take place due to multiple independent regulatory bodies.
Why and how did the FSSAI got formed?
The FSSAI comprises a Chairperson and twenty-two members, out of which one–third are to be women. Also, it is the Central Government that appoints the Chairperson of FSSAI.
Ensuring Food Product Standards is not an easy task. And in earlier days, it was even more difficult. And it was because of various acts and orders that handled food-related issues in various Ministries and Departments.
- Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954
- Fruit Products Order, 1955
- Meat Food Products Order, 1973
- Vegetable Oil Products (Control) Order, 1947
- Edible Oils Packaging (Regulation) Order 1988
- Milk and Milk Products Order, 1992
The list above shows different departments that were repealed after the commencement of the FSS Act, 2006. And this gives FSSAI various roles to perform its duty.
What is the role of FSSAI in ensuring Food Product Standards?
Firstly, FSSAI Frames regulations lay down the standards and guidelines of food safety. It grants FSSAI food safety license and certification for food businesses. Also, it lays down procedures and guidelines for laboratories in food businesses. Not only this, but it also provides suggestions to the government in framing the food-related policies.
The roles of FSSAI also include the task of collecting data regarding contaminants in foods products. The FSSAI is also responsible for the identification of emerging risks in food safety, and the introduction of a rapid alert system. Finally, FSSAI has the job of creating an information network across the country about food safety and promoting general awareness about food safety and food standards.
