Key Development

India’s food safety regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has intensified its crackdown on food adulteration and milk safety drive, with a strong focus on milk and milk products. In a recent press release, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) confirmed that authorities carried out extensive enforcement and surveillance actions across the country during the financial year 2024–25.

Highlights

During FY 2024–25, food safety authorities analysed 33,405 samples of milk and milk products nationwide. They found 12,780 samples that did not meet prescribed food safety standards. Based on these findings, officials launched 12,057 cases against defaulting Food Business Operators (FBOs). These numbers show that regulators are actively monitoring the dairy sector and taking action wherever they detect violations.

How Authorities Enforce the Law

Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, the central and state governments share responsibility for implementing food safety laws. FSSAI sets science-based standards and coordinates nationwide regulatory efforts. State food safety departments conduct inspections, collect samples, and initiate enforcement proceedings against non-compliant businesses.

Officials run routine inspection drives, carry out targeted surveillance, and test samples in accredited laboratories throughout the year. When they detect violations, they initiate regulatory and punitive action against the concerned businesses.

Strengthening Monitoring Mechanisms

To further strengthen the food safety system, FSSAI convenes regular meetings of the Central Advisory Committee (CAC), which includes food safety commissioners from various states. In these meetings, authorities discuss emerging food safety challenges, review policy reforms, and develop strategies to improve enforcement across India.

Official Statement

Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav shared this data in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. His statement underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to combating food adulteration and safeguarding consumer interests.

The latest figures demonstrate a strong nationwide push to improve dairy quality and curb adulteration. By testing thousands of samples and initiating enforcement actions against violators, authorities aim to safeguard public health and strengthen consumer trust in milk and milk products.

Source: Foodtech Network