The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) unequivocally refutes allegations suggesting it sanctioned elevated pesticide levels in Indian herbs and spices, denouncing such media assertions as unfounded and harmful. This response follows media assertions purporting that FSSAI endorses a tenfold increase in pesticide residue permissible in these products.
The National Food Authority of India plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's food security and ensuring the safety of its food supply. It is tasked with stabilizing both the supply and demand of food products, effectively managing prices at both farm and consumer levels. The authority's mission is multifaceted, aiming to secure reasonable returns for food producers while maintaining affordability for consumers. Additionally, it strives to foster healthy competition for Indian food products in the global market. With a vision focused on nationwide sustainability, it aims to establish a robust mechanism for price stabilization in line with supply and demand dynamics, while also prioritizing the economic well-being of Indian farmers.
Ensuring the safety and quality of food for consumption involves regulating and monitoring every aspect of its production, processing, distribution, sale, and importation. This comprehensive oversight aims to guarantee that the food available to consumers is safe and of high quality, meeting stringent standards for wholesomeness.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has the authority to establish regulations pertaining to various aspects of food safety. This includes setting standards and guidelines for different food items and devising a robust system for implementing these standards effectively. Additionally, the FSSAI determines safe limits for the use of food additives, processing aids, mycotoxins, pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants commonly found in food products.
Moreover, the FSSAI is responsible for accrediting laboratories and establishing procedures for their accreditation. Accredited laboratories play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of food by conducting necessary tests and analyses. The FSSAI also outlines procedures for sampling, analysis, and the dissemination of information among enforcement authorities to facilitate efficient regulatory compliance.
Furthermore, the FSSAI conducts surveys to assess the implementation and administration of food safety regulations across the country.
The FSSAI also regulates the accreditation of certification bodies involved in certifying food safety management systems for food businesses.
Additionally, the FSSAI establishes mechanisms for quality control of imported food items to safeguard public health and prevent the entry of unsafe products into the Indian market.
Lastly, the FSSAI outlines procedures for risk analysis, assessment, communication, and management related to food safety.
Providing scientific and technical guidance to both Central and State Governments, the organization plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and procedures concerning food safety and nutrition. Its responsibilities span a broad spectrum, including analyzing data on food consumption patterns, assessing risks associated with pollutants and biological hazards, and identifying emerging threats. Furthermore, it is tasked with establishing a rapid alert system to address potential crises promptly.
The organization also focuses on promoting the development of risk assessment methodologies and disseminating information on health and nutritional risks associated with food consumption. In times of crisis, it collaborates closely with government agencies to implement crisis management procedures effectively.
Facilitating international cooperation is another key objective, achieved through networking with relevant organizations and exchanging expertise and best practices. Additionally, the organization strives to ensure that the public, consumers, and stakeholders receive timely and accurate information through various channels.
Moreover, it offers training programs to individuals involved in food businesses, emphasizing adherence to safety standards. By providing scientific assistance and fostering collaboration, the organization plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health and promoting food safety on both national and international levels.
