The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It plays a pivotal role in regulating and supervising food safety and standards across India. FSSAI's primary objective is to ensure that food products meet specified standards and are safe for consumption by the public.
Role and Functions of FSSAI
FSSAI operates with the following key responsibilities:
- Setting Standards: FSSAI sets standards for food products and regulates their manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure they meet safety and quality benchmarks.
- Licensing and Registration: It mandates that food businesses, including manufacturers, processors, distributors, and retailers, obtain licenses or registrations based on their turnover and nature of operations.
- Promoting Awareness: FSSAI conducts campaigns and initiatives to raise awareness among consumers and businesses about food safety practices and regulations.
- Monitoring and Surveillance: FSSAI conducts regular inspections, sampling, and testing of food products to monitor compliance with standards and take necessary enforcement actions against violations.
- Capacity Building: FSSAI provides training and capacity-building programs to stakeholders in the food industry to enhance their understanding of food safety practices and standards.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
- Legal Compliance: FSSAI registration or licensing is mandatory for food businesses to operate legally in India.
- Consumer Confidence: Registration assures consumers that the food products they purchase comply with safety and quality standards.
- Market Access: FSSAI registration facilitates market access by meeting regulatory requirements, enabling businesses to expand their reach and credibility.