The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is actively working to ensure food safety across the country through regular surveillance, monitoring, inspections, and random sampling of food products. Non-conforming food samples result in penal action against Food Business Operators (FBOs) as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, Rules, and Regulations. This press release was issued on February 11, 2025.
Extending Reach of Testing
To improve access to basic food testing, even in remote areas, the FSSAI has deployed mobile food testing labs called “Food Safety on Wheels” (FSWs). The FSSAI also conducts periodic pan-India surveillance of food products, particularly staple foods and items prone to adulteration.
Complaint Mechanisms and Public Awareness
The FSSAI has established systems for receiving and addressing complaints about food adulteration. Consumers can lodge complaints through the FSSAI helpline or the Food Safety Connect mobile app. These complaints are promptly investigated. The FSSAI also runs various campaigns to raise consumer awareness about food adulteration.
Sample Analysis and Enforcement Data
The following table shows the number of samples analyzed, found non-conforming, and the number of civil and criminal cases launched over the past four years:
| Year | No. of Samples Analysed | No. of Samples found non-conforming | No. of Civil Cases launched | No. of Criminal Cases launched |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | 107,829 | 28,347 | 24,195 | 3,869 |
| 2021-22 | 144,345 | 32,934 | 28,906 | 4,946 |
| 2022-23 | 177,511 | 44,626 | 38,053 | 4,817 |
| 2023-24 | 170,513 | 33,808 | 33,750 | 4,737 |
Food Business Licensing and Registration
Under the FSS Act 2006, no food business can operate without a license or registration. Petty food businesses (turnover less than ₹12 lakh annually) require a registration certificate, while larger businesses (turnover more than ₹12 lakh) need an FSSAI license.
Online Application and Inspection Process
FBOs apply online through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal, submitting required documents and undergoing an inspection. Upon approval, they receive a registration certificate or license.
The FSSAI regularly reviews and improves the certification process based on stakeholder feedback.
Key Takeaway
The FSSAI’s multi-pronged approach, encompassing surveillance, testing, complaint mechanisms, and public awareness campaigns, demonstrates its commitment to ensuring food safety. The data on sample analysis and enforcement actions underscores the ongoing efforts to identify and penalize those involved in food adulteration. The streamlined licensing and registration process aims to bring all food businesses under the regulatory framework, further strengthening food safety standards across the country.
You may also be interested in:
FSSAI CEO Urges Increased Food Safety Inspections In Tamil Nadu
