Source: BS
Context: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently categorized packaged drinking water and mineral water as “high-risk foods,” intensifying regulatory measures to ensure safety and quality.
- This decision follows the removal of mandatory BIS certification, focusing instead on regular inspections and audits under the FSSAI’s purview.
About High-Risk Food Classification:
- What it is: High-risk foods are those requiring stringent safety protocols due to their potential to impact public health if mishandled.
- Authority: Governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
- Law Governing: Regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Why Classification:
- To ensure enhanced consumer safety through rigorous testing and monitoring.
- To replace the dual certification process, streamlining regulatory requirements.
- Other Products Under High-Risk Category:
- Dairy products and analogues.
- Meat, poultry, fish, and seafood.
- Eggs and egg products.
- Prepared and fortified foods (e.g., fortified rice kernels).
- Specialised food products for nutritional uses.
- Significance of Classification:
- Promotes higher safety standards via mandatory inspections and audits.
- Simplifies industry compliance by eliminating redundancy, such as BIS certification.
- Increases consumer trust in food safety measures.
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Explore UPSC Current Affairs for 4 December 2024, including GS Paper 3 and GS Paper 2 topics. Learn about High-risk food, FSSAI and more. Gain insights for Prelims, Mains, and Mapping with key linkages and strategies.
