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“Plans include improvements in testing, strengthening manpower”
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Monday, 11 March, 2024, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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 Maharashtra FDA is responsible for advancing public health by helping the public get accurate, science-based information they need to consume food products to maintain and improve their health. Dharamraobaba Bhagwantrao Aatram, Cabinet Minister of Food and Drug Administration, Maharashtra, shares his views about minimising food adulteration, efficiency of food regulatory processes, food safety, measures against illegal or unlicensed FBOs, and more, in an email interview with Kimberley Almeida. Excerpts:
What steps is Maharashtra FDA taking to minimise food adulteration and contamination?
Maharashtra FDA is employing a comprehensive approach to reduce food adulteration, involving regular inspections of food establishments, strict enforcement of safety regulations, and promoting awareness among food business operators and the public. Additionally, the agency is leveraging advanced testing infrastructure and surveillance to ensure the safety of the food supply chain.
How can Maharashtra FDA improve the efficiency of food regulatory processes?
To enhance the efficiency of food regulatory processes, Maharashtra FDA is focusing on streamlining procedures and investing in training programmes for its staff to facilitate smoother and quicker regulatory processes.
Give us details about Maharashtra FDA collaborating with Government bodies to enhance food safety.
Maharashtra FDA actively collaborates with various government bodies to enhance food safety. This includes forming partnerships with agriculture and dairy development departments for quality control of raw materials, collaborating with municipal corporations for effective local surveillance, and coordinating with law enforcement agencies like Central FSSAI, State, and railway police to tackle illegal activities. Maharashtra FDA also collaborates with the Education department and Women and Child Development department to enhance food safety in schools and Anganwadi through joint training, regular inspections, and the development of comprehensive guidelines. These collaborations aim to create a comprehensive and unified approach to food safety.
What preventive measures are being implemented against illegal or unlicensed FBOs?
Maharashtra FDA is implementing stringent measures to prevent the operation of illegal or unlicensed Food Business Operators (FBOs). This includes regular inspections, strict enforcement of licensing requirements, and the use of technology for better tracking and identification of unregistered entities. Maharashtra FDA is also working on increasing public awareness to discourage consumers from purchasing food items from unregulated sources.
What role does Maharashtra FDA play in ensuring the safety and standard of domestic as well as foreign food products entering the State?
Maharashtra FDA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and standards of both domestic and foreign food products entering the state through robust inspection and testing procedures. For foreign products, Maharashtra FDA collaborates with Central FSSAI Import Clearance authorities, ensuring adherence to standards. For domestic products, Maharashtra FDA works closely with local FBOs to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Tell us about Maharashtra FDA budgeting and resources allocation to effectively carry out its regulatory responsibilities in the State.
Maharashtra FDA strategically allocates its budget to effectively carry out regulatory responsibilities, including investments in staff recruitment and training, infrastructure development, and technology upgrades. Resource allocation is prioritised based on risk assessment and the evolving needs of the food industry, ensuring that the regulatory framework remains dynamic and responsive.
What can Maharashtra FDA do to ensure street food items are not wrapped in newspaper pages?
Maharashtra FDA is actively promoting awareness campaigns to educate street food vendors and consumers about the dangers of wrapping food in newspaper pages. Additionally, enforcement teams conduct regular checks and take necessary actions against those not complying with safety guidelines. Collaborative efforts with local municipalities are also underway to improve the hygienic practices of street food vendors.
Tell us about the adjudication scenario in the State with regard to food products.
The adjudication process in Maharashtra involves fair and transparent procedures to address violations of food safety regulations. A well-defined framework is in place for handling adjudication cases and conducting hearings, emphasising swift and impartial resolution while upholding the principles of natural justice.
How can Maharashtra FDA help FBOs reach peak levels in adhering to food safety and standards quality management?
Maharashtra FDA actively supports FBOs in reaching peak levels of adherence to food safety .and standards. We conduct regular training and capacity-building programmes, offer guidance on best practices and facilitate access to resources for implementing quality management systems. Collaborative initiatives and industry engagement play a vital role in ensuring that FBOs are well-informed and equipped to maintain high standards of food safety.
Any future plans to launch new schemes to ensure food safety in the State?
Maharashtra FDA is committed to continuously enhancing food safety in the State. Future plans include improvements in testing infrastructure, strengthening enforcement manpower, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and collaborating with industry stakeholders to develop and implement best practices. The goal is to stay proactive and adaptive, ensuring the highest standards of food safety for the people of Maharashtra.
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