INDIA – The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a significant step towards enhancing food safety and standards in the country by establishing the National Training Center for Food Safety in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
The dedicated center aims to address the knowledge and skills gap in the field of food safety and standards, particularly in combating food adulteration.
By providing structured instruction, practice, and learning experiences, the center seeks to equip officials, food business operators, and other stakeholders with the necessary expertise to ensure safe and wholesome food for the citizens of India.
Recognizing the importance of continuous skill upgrading, the National Training Center will offer various training programs to enhance the competencies of individuals involved in the food industry.
These programs will bridge the gap between existing knowledge or skills and desired knowledge or skills related to food safety and standards.
The establishment of this center fills a crucial void in professional development and education, ensuring a future-ready workforce committed to upholding high food safety standards.
In a determined effort to tackle the challenge of food adulteration, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Mansukh Mandaviya, Ph.D., has announced stringent measures.
FSSAI has formed a dedicated team in collaboration with state authorities to crack down on individuals and entities engaging in malpractices.
“There will be no tolerance to food adulteration in the country. Large-scale testing will be carried out across the country and action will be taken as per Food Safety and Standards (Act 2006) against those found guilty,” the Miniter stressed.
FoSTaC App: Empowering street food vendors with food safety education
To further promote food safety practices among street food vendors, FSSAI has launched the Food Safety and Certification (FoSTaC) app. This innovative application serves as a comprehensive resource, providing educational and training modules on food safety guidelines.
Street vendors can access valuable information on proper food handling, storage, hygiene practices, and other essential topics. By empowering street food vendors with knowledge and awareness, FSSAI aims to improve food safety practices at the grassroots level and protect consumers.
The initiatives undertaken by FSSAI demonstrate the organization’s steadfast commitment to ensuring food safety across India.
Through the establishment of the National Training Center for Food Safety and the launch of the FoSTaC app, FSSAI is taking proactive measures to educate, train, and empower individuals involved in the food industry.
By strengthening knowledge, skills, and enforcement against adulteration, FSSAI aims to safeguard public health and promote a culture of safe food practices.
FSSAI has been actively working on multiple fronts to bolster food safety in India. They have been revising regulations, implementing stringent quality control measures, and conducting awareness campaigns to educate both consumers and food businesses about the importance of safe food practices.
These collective efforts aim to create a robust food safety ecosystem and ensure the well-being of the Indian population.
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