Got a Problem with a Food Product or an Ad about It?
Report it The central government primarily plays an advisory role in its implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, although it is enacted by the state governments. The state governments also handle the redressal issues. If the food items are ad
Have you ever found a food packet that does not have the veg/non-veg logo or one that you suspect is adulterated? Has it happened that you opened a food pack and found an insect or a hair strand in it? Have you come across any food advertisement that is misleading? Have you then wondered what actions you might take to report the same? Was it then the beginning of a journey to find out about your rights as a consumer, and what you may do if you have a complaint against any food product?
Food safety is a major public health concern. There are specific laws, mandates and regulations in India to maintain the quality of food and to ensure food safety. In fact, there are regulations for the ways in which a food product can be promoted.
The Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006, enacted by the Indian Parliament in August 2006, has a set of regulations and mandates for manufacture, storage, import, sale, and distribution of any food product. The main objectives of this legislation are:
a) to protect the public from toxic and harmful food items b to prevent the sale of food items that are not up to the standards c) to protect the interests of consumers by removing fraudulent practices Consumers play an important role in ensuring food safety. Suppose a food product complaint is registered by a consumer. Now, depending on the type of problem, a batch of the concerned food product may be called back from the market, as a result of which a public health hazard is avoided. Similarly, based on a complaint filed by a consumer, a misleading food advertisement that promotes unhealthy eating could be called off across all media channels. Clearly, it is important that consumers report their problems at the suitable portal or the relevant place. As consumers, we have certain rights with regard to the food and food products we purchase and consume. Consumers also have a redressal mechanism to help them.