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On October 7, 2024, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) convened a critical meeting in Hyderabad with stakeholders from the Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) manufacturing sector and rice millers. The gathering, chaired by CEO Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, aimed to strengthen food safety standards and compliance related to rice fortification. Dignitaries and stakeholders discussed pressing issues in the sector, focusing on maintaining high standards in manufacturing, quality control, storage, and testing.
Focus on Strengthening FRK Compliance
FSSAI's CEO underscored the importance of third-party audits for FRK manufacturers, emphasizing strict adherence to compliance mechanisms throughout the fortification process. He cautioned that non-compliance would result in significant consequences for manufacturers.India’s fortification program, a key initiative aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiencies such as anemia, mandates stringent standards for FRK. Batch-wise testing and quality control are essential to meet these standards. During the meeting, CEO FSSAI reiterated that over 900 companies in India are engaged in FRK manufacturing, highlighting the need for stringent oversight.
Government’s Commitment to Food Fortification
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched 109 high-yielding, nutritionally fortified crop varieties, signaling the government's continued focus on fortification. The bioavailability of nutrients in fortified rice was a key point of discussion, with officials stressing the need for careful monitoring.Special Guest D.S. Chauhan, Commissioner & Principal Secretary to the Government of Telangana, raised concerns about challenges in implementing fortification programs, such as contamination and hygiene issues. He praised the quality of Telangana rice while highlighting the need to eliminate duplicate and adulterated products in the market.
Industry Challenges and Collaborative Solutions
Concerns about non-compliance and gaps in manufacturing practices were raised by various stakeholders. Shri R.V. Karnan, Commissioner of Food Safety, called for district-level awareness programs to train manufacturers in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). He also proposed the establishment of additional testing labs at key locations to ensure the quality of FRK and to address issues quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from all stakeholders to prioritize food safety and collaboratively ensure that fortified rice meets the highest standards. FSSAI’s leadership and the active involvement of over 150 stakeholders, including international organizations like Nutrition International, will help bolster India’s food safety landscape and contribute to the nation’s ongoing fight against micronutrient deficiencies.
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