βοΈ Key Features of the FSSAI Act
- ποΈ Single Line of Command: Centralised authority replacing multiple departments for unified food safety regulation.
- π Integrated Response: Unified approach to address novel foods, nutraceuticals, GM foods, and international trade.
- π Decentralised Licensing: Simplified and streamlined licensing for food manufacturing units.
- β Enhanced Consumer Confidence: Builds public trust in the safety and quality of food products.
- π§ββοΈ State Enforcement: Implemented by State Governments and local bodies through designated officials.
- π Shift to Self-Compliance: Promotes voluntary compliance through strong food safety management systems.
- π International Alignment: Harmonises Indian food standards with global practices while ensuring public health.
- π’ Consumer Awareness: Encourages informed choices through better information dissemination.
- β‘ Expedited Case Resolution: Allows compounding and adjudication to ensure faster case disposal.
- βοΈ Graded Penalties: Introduces proportionate penalties based on the seriousness of the offence.







FSSAI Regulatory Framework
- Collaboration: FSSAI ensures coordination between the central government (Food Authority), state governments (State Food Safety Authorities), and food industry stakeholders to maintain food safety.
- Scientific Committee: Composed of heads of Scientific Panels and independent experts, providing guidance on complex, cross-cutting food safety issues.
- Scientific Panels:16 specialized panels focus on different areas of food safety, including:
- Food Additives
- Pesticide Residues
- Genetically Modified (GM) Food
- Biological Hazards
- Food Labeling
- Functional Foods
- Methods of Food Sampling
- Contaminants in Food
- Fish & Fishery Products
- Milk & Milk Products
- Meat & Meat Products (including Poultry)
- Cereals, Pulses & Legumes (including Bakery Products)
- Fruits & Vegetables (including Dried Fruits & Nuts)
- Salt, Spices & Condiments
- Oils & Fats
- Sweets, Confectionery & Sweeteners (including Sugar & Honey)
- Water & Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
- Purpose: This framework ensures science-based decision-making, promotes food safety, and supports regulation and standardization across the food industry.
