Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
Overview
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the premier regulatory body responsible for ensuring food safety and setting food standards in India. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI consolidates various laws and regulations related to food safety to streamline and regulate the food industry in India. The authority operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
Core Responsibilities
FSSAI plays a pivotal role in:
- Framing science-based food standards for food products.
- Regulating manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food.
- Laying down guidelines for accreditation of food testing laboratories.
- Enforcing food safety compliance through inspections, audits, and surveillance.
- Conducting public awareness campaigns under initiatives like Eat Right India.
Financials & Budget Allocation
As a government entity, FSSAI operates under the Union Budget allocation and various revenue models such as licensing and penalty collections. In FY 2022-23, the Government of India allocated ₹195 crore ($23.5 million) to FSSAI, reflecting its crucial role in food safety governance.
Regulatory Framework
FSSAI enforces food safety through the Food Safety and Standards Regulations which cover:
- Food Additives & Contaminants: Permissible levels of additives and contaminants in food.
- Labeling & Advertising Regulations: Mandatory labeling norms for packaged foods.
- Food Licensing & Registration: FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses (FBOs) in India, with over 4.2 million FBOs registered.
Key Initiatives & Achievements
1. Eat Right India Movement
A nationwide initiative promoting safe, healthy, and sustainable food consumption practices.
- Over 150,000 Eat Right Certification issued to food establishments.
- Eat Right Schools: 78,000+ schools certified for implementing healthy food practices.
2. FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification)
- More than 350,000 food safety supervisors trained.
- Over 17,000 training sessions conducted across various food business sectors.
3. State Food Safety Index (SFSI)
- Ranks Indian states based on food safety compliance.
- Top Performing States (2023): Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra.
4. Food Fortification Initiative
- 90% of edible salt in India is now fortified with iodine.
- 70% of packaged milk fortified with Vitamin A and D.
Compliance & Certifications
FSSAI ensures global food safety alignment with:
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points) Compliance
- ISO 22000: Food Safety Management System
- GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) Standards
Market Impact & International Presence
- FSSAI has streamlined export regulations, ensuring Indian food products meet international standards.
- Collaboration with WHO, FAO, and Codex Alimentarius Commission for global food safety policies.
- Facilitated food exports worth $3.1 billion in 2022 by ensuring compliance with international safety norms.
Challenges & Future Goals
Challenges
- Lack of uniform implementation of food safety laws across states.
- Counterfeit food products entering the supply chain.
- Slow legal proceedings in food safety violation cases.
Future Goals (2025 Vision)
- 100% digital licensing system for food businesses.
- Expansion of food testing laboratories across all districts in India.
- Strengthening AI-driven food surveillance to detect adulteration faster.
Conclusion
FSSAI is at the forefront of ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance in India. Through stringent regulations, nationwide campaigns, and digital transformation, the authority aims to create a healthier and safer food ecosystem for over 1.4 billion Indians. With ambitious targets and global collaborations, FSSAI continues to set benchmarks in food safety governance.
