NEW PLAN OF FSSAI FOR LICENCE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) aims to expedite licensing for traders and distributors, and may soon start issuing licences within 24 hours of application, to improve ease of doing business.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

• About: It is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Headquarters: Delhi
• Aim: To regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
• Legislative Framework: The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaces various central acts like the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, Fruit Products Order, 1955, Meat Food Products Order, 1973, Vegetable Oil Products (Control) Order, 1947, Edible Oils Packaging (Regulation) Order 1988, Milk and Milk Products Order, 1992.
• Composition: It consists of chairperson and 22 members.

oThe Chairperson of FSSAI holds the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.

• Administrative control: It operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. 

Proposed Plan of FSSAI

• Digital Platform for Licensing: Under the proposed plan, FSSAI will launch a dedicated digital platform. Traders can upload documents online and receive licenses within 24 hours.
• Applicable: This initiative excludes manufacturers. Only traders and distributors can avail themselves of the streamlined licensing process.
• Issue of Licenses with QR Code: FSSAI licenses will be issued digitally, accompanied by a QR code. This QR code grants access to details stored in the FSSAI database, enhancing transparency and security against fraudulent activities.
• Mandatory: All food business operators, including pharmacies selling health supplements or nutraceutical products, must obtain FSSAI registration or a license.