FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is an autonomous regulatory body under the Government of India that is responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of food products consumed by the public in India. FSSAI was established to implement and enforce food safety and standards regulations in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Here are key functions and responsibilities of FSSAI:

Setting Standards: FSSAI is responsible for setting standards for the safety, quality, and hygiene of food products and beverages in India. These standards are known as Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Regulations.

Licensing and Registration: FSSAI mandates that food businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and importers, must obtain licenses or register with the authority based on the scale and nature of their food-related activities.

Monitoring and Surveillance: FSSAI conducts regular inspections, surveillance, and sampling of food products to ensure compliance with food safety standards. This involves testing food samples for contaminants, adulterants, and other potential hazards.

Promoting Food Safety: The authority promotes awareness and education on food safety and hygiene among food businesses and consumers. It also develops and disseminates information related to safe food handling and consumption.

Research and Development: FSSAI engages in research and development activities related to food safety and standards. It collaborates with scientific organizations to address emerging food safety issues.

Food Recall and Enforcement: In cases where food products are found to be unsafe or non-compliant with standards, FSSAI has the authority to order product recalls and take enforcement actions against violators.

Food Labeling and Packaging: FSSAI regulates the labeling and packaging of food products to ensure that consumers receive accurate information about the contents, ingredients, nutritional information, and allergens.

Import and Export: FSSAI oversees the import and export of food products to and from India. Imported food products must meet Indian food safety standards to be sold in the country.

Capacity Building: The authority works on building the capacity of food safety enforcement agencies and officials at the state and central levels.

Legal Framework: FSSAI helps develop and amend food-related laws and regulations in India to align them with international best practices.

FSSAI plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that the food products available in the Indian market meet the necessary safety and quality standards. Its activities are aimed at preventing foodborne illnesses, enhancing consumer confidence, and promoting responsible food manufacturing and distribution practices. Businesses in the food industry in India are required to comply with FSSAI regulations to ensure the safety and quality of their products.