The FSSAI-Maggi fiasco and its aftermath hold out several lessons (Editorial, Aug.15). One, a standards authority must not act in haste and must always proceed on the basis of facts. The episode will have repurcussions on the economy; have we thought about the damage and loss of confidence in fast moving consumer goods this may have resulted in? And what about the fallout at a time when the government is trying to promote agro-processing industries? The second aspect is consumer rights and FSSAI’s credibility in the long run. Third, the media and social networking need to be restrained in the reportage of unsubstantiated news. The way a 30-year-old brand/product was destroyed in quick time is unfortunate and unfair. Fourth, one should not be surprised if investigations later show this to be the result of a ‘corporate war’ where several smaller players orchestrated a drama to end the reign of a market leader. The entire episode needs to be investigated, accountability fixed and wrong-doers brought to book.
Pranav Shekhar, New Delhi
There must be a credible end to the lack of clarity over the issue of banning what was once a popular food product. The contradictions in and vacillation over dealing with an important issue of food safety and consumer rights will only damage the country’s image. Why should there be a series of opinions over safety standards of the same product? It’s unfortunate that consumers do not have authentic sources to depend upon and are forced to search for information about what is permitted in the West. The case shows that the setting up of centrally controlled and coordinated food standard laboratories are a necessity. The government has to expedite standardisation measures.
Nibras K.T., Manjeri, Kerala
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