FSSAI Action on Microplastic Contamination in Food

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Environment, Ecology and Biodiversity

Aug 23, 2024

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According to a PTI report, all Indian salt and sugar brands, both packaged and unpackaged, contain microplastics. In response, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a project to address the issue of microplastic contamination in food.

About the Project:

FSSAI has launched the project “Micro-and Nano-Plastics as Emerging Food Contaminants in collaboration with institutions like CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, and Birla Institute of Technology and Science.
The project aims to develop and validate methods for detecting micro and nano-plastics in food, assess their prevalence and exposure levels in India, and establish standard protocols.

FSSAI Action on Microplastic Contamination in Food

About FSSAI:

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It’s a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI, established in 2008, operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
Its primary objectives are to ensure safe and wholesome food for human consumption, regulate and monitor food businesses in India, and establish science-based standards for food articles.
Key functions of FSSAI include framing regulations to set food safety standards and granting safety licences and certifications to food businesses.

Key measures and guidelines implemented by FSSAI:

Licensing and Registration:
- Mandatory Licensing: FSSAI has established a three-tier system (Basic Registration, State License, Central License) to ensure all food business operators (FBOs) are registered and comply with food safety standards.
- Documentation Process: FBOs must submit specific documents, including identity and business details, to obtain the required licences.
Food Safety Management Systems:
- GMP and GHP: FSSAI provides guidance documents for implementing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) to ensure safety throughout the supply chain.

The Eat Right India Movement

FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right India‘ movement aims to transform the food system for safe, healthy, and sustainable food for all Indians, with the tagline ‘Sahi Bhojan. Behtar Jeevan’ as its core
Launched in 2018
Eat Right India supports the National Health Policy 2017 by emphasising preventive and promotive healthcare and aligning with key programs such as Ayushman Bharat, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Anaemia Mukt Bharat, and Swachh Bharat Mission.

Labelling and Packaging:
- Labelling Requirements: Specific guidelines are set for health supplements, nutraceuticals, and products for special dietary use, including clear labelling on usage and nutrient content.
- FSSAI’s Packaging Regulation, 2018, sets standards for safe and suitable food packaging materials. The Labelling and Display Regulation, 2020, mandates clear labelling of nutritional information, ingredients, and allergens on packaged food products.
Training and Awareness:
- Food Safety Training: FSSAI emphasises training for food handlers to maintain GMP and GHP standards.
- Public Awareness: Campaigns, including initiatives like the “Food Funda ChatBot,” educate consumers on food safety and fortification.