The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said on Thursday that it has initiated 1,411 prosecution cases against food business operators (FBOs) who have been found to be in breach of food safety regulations since April. In a statement, FSSAI emphasized its strong commitment to enforcing food safety laws and taking decisive measures against violators.
“According to the records, 1,411 prosecution cases have been initiated against FBOs found violating the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, since April 1, 2023,” it said.
The prosecution launched against the FBOs encompasses various violations, such as conducting food-related activities without a valid license and producing or selling food that is deemed unsafe.
Since the start of this fiscal year, a multitude of food items spanning diverse categories, including milk and dairy products, spices, packaged drinking water, nutraceuticals, sauces, pickles, chips, jaggery, and more, have undergone rigorous testing to verify their adherence to product standards and safety protocols.
In collaboration with state and union territory food authorities, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) maintains an ongoing vigilance over the quality and safety of food products, ensuring the well-being of consumers across the nation through the collection and analysis of samples.
Food business operators (FBOs) who are found to be in breach of the regulations are subject to penalties and legal consequences as stipulated in the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
The regulatory authority has recommended that all food business operators adhere to the food product standards set by FSSAI and maintain safe and hygienic manufacturing practices for food products.
“Any non-compliance may result in strict action against the violating FBOs,” FSSAI said.