Tomorrow, June 7, is World Food Safety Day. The World Health Organisation has stated this year’s theme is “Food standards save lives”. To provide an introductory overview of the food safety regulatory framework around the world, we are giving an overview each day of the food safety regulations in the three most populous countries on each inhabited continent. This is part 2 of 6, Asia, where we look into India, China and Indonesia.

Food safety regulations in India are governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which is the apex regulatory body responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of food across the country. Here are some key aspects of food safety regulations in India:

  1. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006: The Food Safety and Standards Act is the primary legislation that governs food safety in India. It establishes the FSSAI and provides the legal framework for food safety standards, regulations, and enforcement.
  2. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): The FSSAI is responsible for setting standards for food products, regulating their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import. It also provides guidance and advice to the central and state governments on matters relating to food safety.
  3. Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Regulations: The FSS Regulations provide detailed requirements for various aspects of food safety, including licensing and registration of food businesses, food labeling and packaging, food additives, contaminants, hygiene practices, and food import and export.
  4. Licensing and Registration: Food businesses in India are required to obtain either a license or registration from the FSSAI, depending on the scale and nature of their operations. The licensing and registration process ensures that businesses meet specific food safety and hygiene requirements.
  5. Food Safety Standards: The FSSAI establishes food safety standards for different categories of food products. These standards specify the permissible limits for various contaminants, additives, and labeling requirements. The standards cover a wide range of products, including dairy products, meat and poultry, fruits and vegetables, packaged foods, beverages, and more.
  6. Food Safety Inspections and Audits: The FSSAI conducts regular inspections and audits of food businesses to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. These inspections are carried out by Food Safety Officers appointed by the FSSAI or the State Food Safety Departments.
  7. Food Recall and Surveillance: The FSSAI has provisions for food recall in case of non-compliance or safety issues with food products. It also conducts surveillance and monitoring programs to detect and address any potential risks to public health.
  8. Consumer Awareness and Education: The FSSAI is committed to raising awareness about food safety among consumers. It promotes education and training programs, disseminates information on safe food practices, and encourages public participation in food safety initiatives.

Food safety regulations in China are implemented by various governmental agencies, primarily the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) and the General Administration of Customs (GAC). These agencies work together to establish and enforce regulations to ensure the safety and quality of food produced and sold within the country. Here are some key aspects of food safety regulations in China:

  1. China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA):
  • Food Safety Law: The Food Safety Law is the primary legislation governing food safety in China. It sets out the basic principles, standards, and responsibilities for food safety throughout the food supply chain.
  • Food Safety Standards: The CFDA sets national food safety standards for various aspects, including food additives, contaminants, labeling requirements, and maximum residue limits for pesticides and veterinary drugs.
  • Food Production Licensing: Food businesses in China are required to obtain a food production license from the CFDA or its local counterparts. The licensing process ensures that businesses meet specific hygiene and safety requirements.
  • Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs): The CFDA establishes GMPs for food production and processing, outlining guidelines for hygiene, personnel training, production facilities, equipment, and quality control.
  1. General Administration of Customs (GAC):
  • Import and Export Regulations: The GAC oversees import and export activities related to food products. It enforces regulations on product certification, inspection, and quarantine requirements for imported and exported food items.
  • Inspection and Quarantine: The GAC conducts inspections and tests on imported and exported food products to ensure compliance with food safety standards and prevent the entry or exit of unsafe or substandard goods.
  1. Local Food Safety Authorities: Local food safety authorities, at the provincial and municipal levels, are responsible for implementing and enforcing food safety regulations within their jurisdictions. They conduct inspections, enforce regulations, and handle food safety incidents at the local level.
  2. Food Safety Monitoring and Surveillance: The CFDA, along with other agencies, carries out monitoring and surveillance programs to detect and address food safety risks. This includes regular testing of food products, sampling inspections, and risk assessments.
  3. Food Recall and Traceability: Regulations require food businesses to establish systems for product traceability and recall in the event of safety issues. This helps identify and remove potentially harmful products from the market and protect consumer health.
  4. Public Awareness and Education: The Chinese government promotes public awareness and education regarding food safety through campaigns, public information initiatives, and educational programs. The goal is to raise awareness among consumers and promote safe food practices.

Food safety regulations in Indonesia are primarily enforced by the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan, BPOM) under the Ministry of Health. The BPOM is responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of drugs, food, and beverages in Indonesia. Here are some key aspects of food safety regulations in Indonesia:

  1. Food Law:
  • Law No. 18/2012 on Food: This law serves as the foundation for food safety regulations in Indonesia. It governs various aspects related to food safety, including production, processing, labeling, packaging, and distribution of food products.
  1. National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM):
  • The BPOM is the regulatory authority responsible for implementing food safety regulations in Indonesia. It conducts inspections, assessments, and product registrations to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
  • Licensing and Registration: Food businesses, including manufacturers, importers, and distributors, are required to obtain licenses or registrations from the BPOM to operate legally.
  1. Food Safety Standards and Guidelines:
  • Indonesian National Standards (SNI): SNI standards are established to ensure the safety and quality of various food products. These standards cover areas such as hygiene practices, food additives, labeling requirements, and maximum residue limits for contaminants.
  • Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practice (GHP): The BPOM requires food businesses to adhere to GMP and GHP guidelines to maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene during production, processing, and handling of food products.