Key Update

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked States and Union Territories to strengthen on-ground enforcement and tighten inspections in high-risk food categories. At the 49th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee, Rajit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer, FSSAI, urged States to adopt risk-based inspections and run sustained surveillance drives.

He asked officials to prioritise high-risk food categories such as milk and milk products, edible oils, spices, and honey. Punhani directed authorities to take strict and visible action against non-compliant Food Business Operators (FBOs), conduct special enforcement drives, and regularly submit action taken reports. He emphasised that consistent enforcement would deter violations and reinforce consumer confidence.

Strengthening the Food Safety Workforce

FSSAI also instructed States to fill vacant positions of Food Safety Officers and other key technical staff without delay. Punhani highlighted that adequate manpower remains critical to maintaining enforcement intensity and improving inspection coverage across districts. Punhani directed States and UTs to resolve food safety complaints within defined timelines and conduct periodic high-level reviews. FSSAI asked authorities to respond promptly to consumer grievances and communicate enforcement actions transparently to strengthen accountability and public trust.

Driving Better Coordination and Data Use

The meeting brought together 110 officials, including Commissioners of Food Safety, representatives from States and UTs, senior FSSAI officers, and industry stakeholders. Participants discussed ways to strengthen centralised surveillance systems, leverage data-driven decision-making, and improve coordination between FSSAI and State authorities. They also explored measures to streamline licensing and registration processes, making compliance easier while maintaining strong regulatory oversight.

Source: Hindu Business Line