PDS Gaya - Food Safety and Standard Act

Most of you would have known about the fact that 25% of the food samples produced for food safety test has been found adulterated. But PDS Gaya today will post the same information in order to make its people know the fact that only food approved by authorities are worth buying.

Food safety and Standard Act (FSSA). 2006 came into force since 5^th August 2011 and with it, comes a package that includes imprisonment and fining those who are found selling adulterated food items. Adulterators may also be sentenced to life imprisonment or fine up to `10,00,000 depending on the seriousness of the crime. Even genetically modified food, organic food, beverages, dietary supplements can also be scrutinized under this act.

Therefore, one should know this that if any Public Distribution System's FPS is selling or providing such item, you may contact responsible authorities to take up suitable steps.

Recently, it is found that 25% of the total food tested for adulteration has been found to be adulterated. The incidence of adulteration in cereals, edible oils, spices, milk and foodgrains is very high in Bihar. This is according to JK Singh the Deputy Direction or Bihar.

One should also know that regular consumption of adulterated food can lead to many health problems which includes fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, etc.

Coming to what are added in various items, Cereals and products like wheat, flour, besan, rice and grams have been found to have the presence of dust, insects, fungus, etc. In milk and milk products , mainly starch and sodium bicarbonate are used for adulteration. Besides, in spices and condiments, mostly artificial yellow color, lead chromate, brick powder and dust are added.

The act also covers items like tea, coffee, soft drink, jelly, ketchup, jam, pan masala, sweets and sweetening agents, flavour materials, salt, sugar, vanaspati, meat and horticulture products. However, medical products, cosmetics, drugs, animal feed and narcotics do not come under the purview of this act.

One should have the knowledge that any competent authority can seize and recall the adulterated products. Therefore, be informed and stay safe.

For more information on Public Distribution and other food security, visit PDS Gaya website.