In a pioneering move, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Pune district is set to launch an unprecedented initiative that involves inspecting and rating food business operators (FBOs) as part of the Eat Right Challenge campaign. This campaign is an initiative by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and aims to enhance food safety and hygiene standards in the region.
Manufacturing units, including those involved in dairy, dairy products, and food processing, will come under scrutiny as part of this campaign. The primary objective is to inspect FBOs and provide them with training to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
This initiative is not meant to penalize FBOs, but rather to create awareness and promote adherence to food safety and hygiene norms. Those who fail to meet the established standards will face necessary actions.
Certificates will be awarded to hotels and other establishments following successful inspections and ratings. The campaign will also extend its reach to canteens in schools, colleges, and companies, ensuring that food safety remains a priority across various sectors.
Joint Commissioner Suresh Annapure, who oversees the Pune FDA region, highlighted that the initiative’s ultimate goal is to effectively implement the Food and Safety Act of 2006, along with the Rules and Regulations of 2011.
The campaign, which has enlisted the support of a private agency to bolster FDA efforts, will continue until December, ensuring an extensive and thorough evaluation of food business operators in Pune district.
