The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has instructed state authorities to prioritise consumer grievances and conduct fortnightly reviews, as part of its renewed push to strengthen enforcement and restore public trust in national food safety standards.
FSSAI Chief Executive Officer Rajit Punhani issued the directive to state food safety commissioners during the 48th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee held in New Delhi.
“Addressing consumer complaints related to food safety with utmost priority will play a key role in enhancing consumer confidence and awareness,” Punhani stated, directing states to monitor and review complaint resolutions every two weeks.
He further mandated that all states submit daily reports detailing enforcement activities and actions taken against non-compliant food businesses. According to an official statement, this measure aims to improve transparency and accountability across the country’s food safety ecosystem.
In a separate instruction focused on strengthening scientific infrastructure, Punhani urged states to ensure optimal utilisation of high-end laboratory equipment and secure accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). This initiative is expected to enhance nationwide uniformity and reliability in food sample testing.
The meeting, attended by more than 70 participants—including state commissioners, FSSAI officials, industry representatives, and research bodies—also addressed the need to streamline licensing and registration procedures. Members highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making and centralised surveillance, calling for closer coordination between FSSAI and state agencies to generate credible, national-level food safety intelligence.
