The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a proactive stance to tackle the issue of spurious drugs manufactured by nutraceutical companies across the country. In its latest initiative, the regulatory authority has launched a comprehensive surveillance drive to curb this menace, starting with the inspection of facilities in Himachal Pradesh. A press release on this initiative was issued on 20th June, 2023.
The Regional Office, North, of FSSAI has been directed to spearhead the drive in Himachal Pradesh, targeting Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in the production of spurious drugs. During the period of 7th to 9th June, 2023, a total of 21 facilities in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, were inspected, and 111 samples were lifted for further investigation.
This intensive drive will continue throughout the month, with plans to inspect 25-30 percent of the nutraceutical manufacturing facilities in Himachal Pradesh by the end of June 2023. The aim is to identify and take immediate action against defaulting FBOs to ensure consumer safety and the integrity of the nutraceutical industry.
To address this critical issue, the CEO of FSSAI called for a meeting with major manufacturers of health supplements and nutraceuticals in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. The meeting, held on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023, at the FSSAI headquarters, saw the CEO issue a stern warning, emphasizing the absolute necessity for strict compliance with nutraceutical regulations. Non-compliance was highlighted as having severe consequences, including the possibility of license suspension or cancellation, as well as the initiation of criminal cases.
Recognizing the importance of a coordinated effort, the FSSAI has also directed the Commissioner of Food Safety in Himachal Pradesh to provide full support in carrying out the surveillance drive effectively. The FBOs found to be in violation may face prosecution which could result in penalties such as lifetime imprisonment or a fine of not less than Rs. 10 lakhs.
To involve citizens in maintaining food safety, the FSSAI has introduced the Food Safety Connect app, a dedicated consumer grievance portal available on both iOS and Android platforms. Through this user-friendly application, individuals can promptly report any non-compliance or violations they come across, enabling the FSSAI to take swift action and address the issues effectively.
