FSSAI Urges Food Industry to Improve Quality, Transparency Amid Rising Consumer Complaints
FSSAI Urges Food Industry to Improve Quality, Transparency Amid Rising Consumer Complaints
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked food businesses to strengthen quality assurance systems, strictly comply with food safety regulations and communicate transparently with consumers amid a rise in complaints about food products on social media.
Addressing a conference organised by FICCI, Satyen Kumar Panda, Advisor (Quality Assurance) and Additional Charge (Science & Standards & Regulations Division), FSSAI, said the regulator is also developing a robust digital traceability system that will help identify the source of foodborne illness outbreaks and improve response mechanisms.
The food regulator said it has issued notices to several food business operators (FBOs), including e-commerce platforms, over complaints related to product quality in recent months. It has also taken action against manufacturers of energy drinks and alcoholic beverages over alleged misleading claims and labelling practices.
Panda highlighted the importance of the food processing sector in reducing post-harvest losses, increasing value addition and boosting India’s exports. He stressed the need for the industry to improve processing standards, minimise food wastage and cater to the growing demand for safe, nutritious, affordable and sustainable food.
Noting that consumer expectations are evolving rapidly, Panda said food safety concerns raised on social media should serve as an opportunity for the industry to strengthen its practices. He urged companies to invest in research and development, cleaner technologies, efficient supply chains and transparent communication while embedding a strong food safety culture across organisations.
The FSSAI also encouraged food businesses to adopt artificial intelligence, improve digital traceability and reinforce quality assurance systems. According to Panda, robust compliance with food safety standards is essential not only for protecting public health but also for improving export competitiveness and strengthening consumer confidence.
As part of its future roadmap, the regulator is developing the Food Safety Emergency Response (FSER) framework to better manage foodborne illness outbreaks and contamination incidents. The digital traceability system being developed under this initiative is expected to help authorities quickly identify the root cause of outbreaks and take timely action.
Panda also informed that FSSAI has reconstituted 21 scientific panels and expert committees and invited industry stakeholders to actively participate in consultations for upcoming food standards and regulations. He reiterated that the regulator remains committed to building a science-based, predictable and innovation-friendly regulatory framework while continuing reforms such as perpetual licensing, updated labelling rules and strengthening food testing infrastructure through support to state governments for establishing laboratories.
