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30th April 2024 (15 Topics)

Short on Safety

Context:

Recent concerns have been raised regarding India's food safety regime following allegations against various food products, including infant food, health drinks, and spices.

Issues with Food Safety Regulation:

  • Allegations against prominent brands: Allegations have surfaced against brands like Nestle, MDH, and Everest, raising doubts about food safety standards.
  • International scrutiny: Regulatory authorities in Singapore, Hong Kong, and the US have flagged concerns such as unhealthy sugar content and salmonella contamination in Indian food products.
  • FSSAI's challenges: Despite its mandate, the FSSAI faces limitations in enforcing regulations and ensuring compliance due to inadequate staff and infrastructure.

Role of FSSAI and Regulatory Gaps:

  • Establishment and mandate: FSSAI, formed in 2008 under the Food Safety and Standards Act, oversees food safety for various businesses, including multinational corporations and small-scale enterprises.
  • Challenges in enforcement: Inadequate resources hinder FSSAI's ability to effectively regulate the food industry, leading to skepticism among stakeholders about its efficacy.
  • Need for improvement: Regular updates to standards and guidance for exporters are essential for enhancing India's food market growth and global competitiveness.

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