FSS implementation status, licensing dominate FSSAI 6th CAC meeting agenda

The 6th Central Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting of Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was conducted by the body at its premises recently.

Commissioners of food safety of major states / union territories participated in the meet with status reports of respective states. The reports elaborated on the progress made in implementation of the FSS Act, Rules and Regulations etc. and appointment of regulators as well as legal machinery i.e. food appellate tribunals.

V N Gaur, CEO, FSSAI, while welcoming the members, shared the salient points about the recent milk survey report over which the media reports created apprehensions about large-scale adulteration in the minds of people. He advised all the states to examine the issues highlighted in the executive summary of the report and take appropriate measures.

The Central Licensing System (CLS) software developed by NISG has been implemented and licenses are being issued. Initially five regions AP, Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi joined for similar templates for state licensing, however, other regions also showed eagerness to use the software, it was learnt at the meeting.

The meeting was also told that food safety helpline and website needed to be developed by states and each state needed to appoint a nodal officer for issues related to food safety till such time complete processes were in place for quick disposal of grievances, if any. Training programmes are to be organised on pan-India basis at select institutions and states have to come forward in identifying resource persons and other infrastructure wherever required FSSAI will provide all possible help.

Director (administration) FSSAI outlined the contribution of Gaur, who would be superannuating shortly, to the body. From first CAC till the present meeting, Gaur had brought about a distinct integration of various processes enunciated in new law and provided a stable platform for implementing as well as enforcing FSS Act, Rules and Regulations both in letter and spirit. The house gave a standing ovation to Gaur.

Towards the end, the CEO emphasised upon licensing and import food clearances needing improvements as first time such a system had been developed and advised states to remain in constant touch with FSSAI about enforcement of Act.