PhotoCredit:istockThe rising need to ensure safety of imported food in India since March 2016 led FSSAI to appoint Custom officials as "authorized officers" for testing the imported food across 125 points before it reaches the Indian market.
As per the new amendment, among the three people involved at customs: The Custom Port Officer, Clearing House Agent and FSSAI Food Inspector / Food Safety Officers are the dedicated officers appointed by FSSAI.
The big question that comes up here is what made FSSAI take such an important decision and are these "authorized officers" well equipped?
When questioned why such change came into effect and why weren't technically trained people, holding degrees in Biotechnology, Food and Dairy Technology, etc hired, FSSAI came up with a reply stating that large amount of time goes into hiring and training the people. Until then, the import at various docks cannot be called off or halted leading to such a decision.
Ashwin Bhadri, CEO of Equinox Labs said, "Since FSSAI is running low on staffs, reaching out to other government organisations for ensuring food safety is natural. However, going to the custom officers may not be the best policy as they may not be fully aware about the food safety norms. He also suggests "There are multiple other agencies in the country - both public and private - who can probably help as well."Inputs from Equinox Labs.