Is FSSAI Launching a Nationwide Drive Against Milk Adulteration?
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Synopsis
The FSSAI is taking significant steps to protect public health by launching a nationwide enforcement drive to combat the adulteration of milk and dairy products. This move comes as a response to the alarming rise in food safety violations across the country.
Key Takeaways
- FSSAI has initiated a nationwide enforcement drive.
- The focus is on milk and dairy product adulteration.
- Intensive inspections will target both licensed and unlicensed operators.
- Traceability exercises will identify sources of adulteration.
- Strict penalties will be enforced for violations.
New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) In response to rising concerns regarding food safety and consumer health, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a directive on Tuesday, urging all States and Union Territories to initiate a comprehensive nationwide enforcement operation targeting the adulteration and misbranding of milk and associated products, such as paneer and khoya.
According to FSSAI sources, this directive has been enacted under Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which grants the food authority the power to implement urgent measures to safeguard public health.
Officials from FSSAI stated, “Numerous cases of adulteration and misbranding of dairy products have been reported across the nation lately.”
“Such products are frequently produced by unauthorized and unlicensed entities, posing significant risks to consumers,” they further noted.
The authority emphasized that any misrepresentation of adulterated or substitute products as authentic dairy items is a clear violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act and its associated regulations.
As part of the special enforcement initiative, State Food Safety Departments and FSSAI Regional Offices have been instructed to conduct rigorous inspections of facilities involved in the production, storage, and sale of milk and milk products.
“This includes examining both licensed and unlicensed food business operators (FBOs),” the authority stated.
Food Safety Officers have also been directed to collect enforcement samples of milk, paneer, and khoya in accordance with established procedures and verify the licensing and registration status of businesses.
Additionally, officials indicated that the advisory requires authorities to “conduct traceability exercises in instances where samples are found non-compliant or suspicious patterns are observed.” This aims to identify the source of adulteration and uncover illegal manufacturing operations and supply chains.
“Strict enforcement actions—such as the seizure of unsafe food items, suspension or revocation of licenses, closure of illegal operations, and recall and destruction of adulterated products—are to be initiated wherever violations occur,” officials confirmed.
Moreover, to guarantee accountability and monitoring, FSSAI has requested States and UTs to rapidly record all data on the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) to facilitate effective consolidation and analysis at the headquarters level.
The authority has also called for enhanced inter-State coordination and the development of local intelligence to combat the inter-State movement of adulterated and misbranded milk products.
The personal engagement of Commissioners of Food Safety and Regional Directors has also been solicited to ensure prompt compliance and rigorous enforcement of these directives.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the FSSAI's proactive approach in addressing food safety concerns. The implementation of this nationwide enforcement drive demonstrates the commitment to safeguarding public health. Ensuring that consumers receive safe and genuine products is paramount, and the FSSAI's actions are a step in the right direction.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the FSSAI's enforcement drive?
The FSSAI's enforcement drive aims to combat the adulteration and misbranding of milk and dairy products to protect consumer health.
What powers does the FSSAI have under the Food Safety Act?
Under Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the FSSAI is empowered to take urgent measures to ensure public health.
What actions will be taken against violators?
Violators may face actions such as seizure of unsafe products, suspension of licenses, closure of illegal units, and destruction of adulterated goods.
How will the enforcement process be monitored?
States and UTs are required to record all enforcement data on the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) for effective monitoring.
Why is inter-State coordination important?
Enhanced inter-State coordination helps in curbing the movement of adulterated and misbranded milk products across state lines.
