India showcases a diverse array of cultures, each with its distinct culinary and dietary practices. This cultural diversity has significantly influenced the extensive food sector in India, a large-scale industry with numerous participants.
The Indian food market involves a variety of businesses involved in selling food products, presenting a significant challenge in standardizing this expansive, nationwide industry. In such a crucial market that directly impacts public health and safety, ensuring adherence to regulations is crucial, especially in the food sector. The potential consequences of introducing an unsafe product into the market can be disastrous for society. Both FPO and FSSAI play vital roles in overseeing India’s food business sector. This article goes into the difference between FPO and FSSAI and sheds light on the Indian government’s reasoning behind implementing strict regulations for the food industry.
Compliance Requirements for FPO and FSSAI
For understanding of difference between FPO and FSSAI, let us look at the essential requirements for both. The rules for both the order related to Food Products and the authority concerning Food Safety and Standards in India are extremely important due to the possible health effects linked to the use of defective items. Consuming of the such items can result in negative impacts on the all over health, like say the minor discomfort to severe and sometimes critical health issues. The consequences for both individual consumers and society at large can be significant.
A compelling illustration of the outcomes of consuming food items without strict policies and safety standards is the spread of the Coronavirus. The virus started in a market in Wuhan, China, and researchers attribute its transmission to the consumption of various animals not typically safe for human consumption. This global health crisis highlights the importance of regulating and controlling the food industry to prevent similar incidents.
To tackle these concerns, India has put in place measures to organize and control its food industry, ensuring adherence to established standards and safety protocols. Even if there is difference between FPO and FSSAI, both FPO and FSSAI play crucial roles in setting up and maintaining these standards, safeguarding the well-being of consumers and the broader society.
Evolution of Food Regulations: From FPO to FSSAI
Before the difference between FPO and FSSAI, let us learn its evolution. Before the Food Safety Standards Authority of India enacted rules in 2006, the Indian government relied on various inscriptions, registrations and certificates to oversee the country’s food industry. One notable regulatory framework was the Fruits and Products Order to foster health, safety and hygiene standards Playing an important role was a range of products as diverse as packaged juices, canned fruits, packed vegetables and ready meals.
The Fruit Products Order had been in effect or force since 1955, like a regulatory certification for food business operators. However, with the introducing of the new Food Safety and Standards Act in 2006 it has now come marked a significant change. The establishment of the FSSAI made previous registrations, certificates and licenses obsolete, indicating a remarkable change in the regulatory landscape. The establishment of the FSSAI rendered their previous registrations, certificates and licenses obsolete, signalling a significant constitutional change. FSSAI became the main safety standards and regulatory body for the entire food industry in India.
FSSAI: Safeguarding Food Safety and Standards in India
Looking into the difference between FPO and FSSAI, let us know about the role of FSSAI now. In 2006, India enacted the Food Safety Standards Act, an important piece of legislation that make it mandatory for all organizations involved in the food industry to comply with this.
FSSAI is now serving as primary regulatory authority for all the entire food industry in India. It acts as the central governing body, requiring both new and established food business operators to register and undergo evaluation to operate officially within the country.
Operational Mechanism of FSSA
FSSAI employs a decentralized organizational structure, with individual state divisions collaborating closely with respective local municipal corporations. This decentralized approach facilitates the administration and control of the food industry by establishing food quality standards. Compliance with safety regulations is mandatory for every registered food business, and failure to adhere to FSSAI guidelines results in the loss of official status, rendering the operation unlawful.
FSSAI Certification Process
Recognizing the diverse nature of the food industry, from local street vendors to large scale hoteliers and producers of FMCG goods, the FSSAI certification process considers these variations in business size. The certification process is divided into three levels to address the requirements. This tiered approach ensures that businesses are subject to regulations appropriate to their size and scale of operations, promoting safety and compliance within the food industry in India.
To protect the health of consumers, authorities have implemented stringent regulations to comprehensively govern the Indian food market. Over an extended period, the Government of India has established numerous provisions and policies aimed at maintaining standards and safety measures in the food industry. Though there is difference between FPO and FSSAI , these tools like FPO and FSSAI are essential components of these efforts, ensuring that food products adhere to strict standards for consumability and pose no risk to public health.
Entities Requiring FSSAI Registration in India
After looking the difference between FPO and FSSAI, let us look at who needs FSSAI certification. FSSAI registration is mandatory for various individuals and businesses engaged in the food industry. The following entities are required to obtain FSSAI registration:
- Wholesalers
- Transporters of food products
- Suppliers of raw food products
- Online food business operators
- Food traders
- Food storage and production units
- Exporters and importers of food products
- Distributors of food products
- All types of food producers
Required Documents for FSSAI Registration
After the difference between FPO and FSSAI, let us see the documents needed for FSSAI registration. The documentation requirements for FSSAI registration vary based on the type of registration. Here is a breakdown of the necessary documents:
Basic Registration:
- Identity proof with also photograph
- Passport-size photographs
State & Central License:
- Passport-sized photographs
- No Objection Certificate from the local municipality
- Memorandum of Association and the Article of Association
- List of directors or the partners
Import-Export Registration:
- Certificate of incorporation
- Identity proof with the photograph
- Address proofs
Additional Documents for Manufacturing Units:
- Report on the water test
- List of all machinery
- List of all food categories
- Blueprint of the warehouse
Ramifications of Non-Compliance with FSSAI Regulations
Every individuals or businesses registered under the FSSAI registration is obligated to adhere to the rules and all such regulations given by the Food Safety and Standards Act of India, 2006. Food safety officials conduct examinations of food businesses, assessing their compliance with the law using a predefined checklist.
Based on the examination results, the food safety official categorizes compliance as follows:
- Compliance
- Non-compliance
- Partial compliance
- Not applicable
Final Thoughts
The difference between FPO and FSSAI signifies an important distinction in India’s regulatory framework for food. In the difference between FPO and FSSAI, while on one hand the Fruit Products Order concentrated mainly on specific fruit and vegetable items, the establishment of the body FSSAI in 2006 expanded its jurisdiction to regulate the entire food industry. FSSAI’s decentralized structures and rigorous standard ensure comprehensive oversights, emphasizing on the total safety and conformity. The main difference between FPO and FSSAI underscores a proactive stance by the Indian government to enhance food safety measures, protect public health, and address the dynamic requirements of a diverse and expansive food market.
