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In a proactive move to bolster food safety measures, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated a comprehensive awareness and sensitization program targeting major markets in the national capital, Delhi. Collaborating with the Food Safety Department, Delhi, the initiative aims to educate traders and consumers about the detection and mitigation of pesticide residue and contaminants in food products.
The campaign, which commenced on April 8, 2024, began its journey from the bustling Khan Market and INA Market in Delhi. Market associations and traders were actively engaged in informative sessions highlighting the harmful effects of pesticide residue, particularly in fruits and vegetables, and the importance of rigorous testing. The focal point of the program was the introduction of FSSAI’s groundbreaking initiative, the “Food Safety on Wheel” mobile lab. Equipped with rapid testing kits capable of detecting approximately 50 pesticide residues across various food matrices, including fruits, vegetables, milk, and cereals, this mobile lab ensures swift and accurate results within hours, facilitating prompt action to ensure food safety.
Traders were urged to leverage this resource for expedited testing, thereby guaranteeing the safety and quality of products sold in the market. Additionally, they were sensitized about the necessity of obtaining FSSAI licenses or registration and adhering strictly to food safety standards. Emphasis was placed on sourcing raw materials exclusively from FSSAI licensed/registered vendors to ensure traceability and compliance.
The significance of raw material testing to ascertain the safety and quality of food products was underscored during the program. Attendees were educated about the hazards of artificial ripening and wax coating of fruits and vegetables using unapproved chemicals, alongside promoting the role of organic farming in ensuring food safety. Information regarding the availability of testing laboratories for food products in Delhi and nearby areas was also disseminated.
Central to the event was the notion of collective responsibility in ensuring food safety, encapsulated by the mantra, “Food Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility.” The program emphasized the vital role of every stakeholder across the food supply chain in fostering a healthier India. As the apex food regulator in the country, FSSAI remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding public health through the implementation of robust food safety protocols nationwide.
