Food Safety Infrastructure: Action of the Highest Priority
The Hygiene and Food Safety Authority of India has its 44th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) on 22 nd and 23rd of August 2024 headed by the CEO of FSSAI Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao. One of the main concerns discussed was the shortages in food safety namely the recruitment of the Food Safety Officer (FSO) and the Designated Officer (DO) and the enhancement of testing laboratories in different states.
Constitution of an Inter-Ministerial Committee on Pesticides
At the meeting, a recent focus was made to upgrade the food testing laboratories and to fill the vacancies of FSO and DO posts. Governments were urged to come up with plans on how to open new microbiology labs to enhance the tests. These steps are considered very important in boosting the effectiveness of food safety regulations as well as adequate examination of foodstuffs.
Mobile Food Safety Labs are modern techniques for ensuring food safety.
Shri Rao also talked about “Food Safety on Wheels” (FSWs), vehicles fitted with testing equipment and rapid kits. These vans will increase consumers’ awareness by testing the quality of food at some strategic places within states and offering the results within the shortest time. Of importance is that the FSWs are very critical when it comes to monitoring food safety by testing it regularly and taking necessary corrective action.
The initiatives of a safe food commitment
The meeting which was with the representation of over 50 officials from the states, Union Territories, and food industry ended with participation agreeing on food safety and availability of safe and nutritious foods in the country.
