In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has emphasised the crucial need to amplify the testing of food products within the national capital to ensure their quality and safety. Expressing deep concerns over the current state of affairs, the bench, led by Justice Manmeet P S Arora, highlighted the alarming reality of a ‘corrupted’ food cycle, urging the apex regulatory body, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), to take decisive action.
‘The FSSAI needs to ramp up testing. It is minimal. What sort of products are we eating? We do not know. Our food cycle has got so corrupted. You are taking no steps. You are living in some ivory tower. You pick up any food product, there is a problem. There is so much pesticide,’ the bench remarked sternly.
The court underscored the importance of the FSSAI exercising its supervisory powers to ensure robust testing mechanisms are in place. It called for a significant increase in the frequency of testing, considering the extensive food consumption prevalent in Delhi.
‘Look at the population of Delhi. How much food consumption is taking place on a daily basis. How many FSOs are there in Delhi? Sampling needs to be ramped up,’ Justice Manmohan emphasised.
Furthermore, the court directed the commissioner of food supplies to provide a detailed affidavit outlining the level of testing, the number of food inspecting teams, and the department’s budget. This directive came alongside concerns raised by the amicus curiae regarding the detection of harmful chemicals, such as calcium carbide, used to artificially ripen mangoes.
Addressing the financial burden currently borne by individuals seeking food testing, the court asserted that such costs should be covered by the State, relieving citizens of this responsibility. This stance aligns with the court’s commitment to ensuring public health and safety.
The case, initiated by the court in 2010 following a news report on the use of harmful pesticides in vegetable cultivation, underscores the judiciary’s proactive approach in safeguarding citizens from potential health hazards.
As the nation grapples with evolving food safety challenges, the Delhi High Court’s intervention serves as a crucial reminder of the paramount importance of stringent regulatory measures to uphold the integrity of the food supply chain and protect public health.
In response to the Delhi High Court’s urgent plea to intensify food testing and enhance public safety measures, Vakilsearch emphasises the critical role of legal compliance and regulatory enforcement in safeguarding consumer health. As concerns mount over pesticide contamination and corruption in the food cycle.
Vakilsearch underscores the need for swift and decisive action by regulatory authorities like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). If you have any queries regarding the FSSAI standards get in touch with our experts. Avail complete support when it comes to FSSAI registration and compliance support.
