Describe the structure and functions of FSSAI and the food safety enforcement system in India.

1. 1 · Open in two lines. The FSS Act 2006 consolidated India's food laws and set up FSSAI (2008) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to lay down science-based standards and regulate food businesses.
2. 2 · Background. Name the laws it replaced: PFA Act 1954, FPO, MMPO, Meat Food Products Order and the oil orders. One law, one licence, one regulator.
3. 3 · Draw the structure chart. [Diagram: Ministry → FSSAI (Food Authority, Chairperson, CEO) → Commissioner of Food Safety → Designated Officer → Food Safety Officer → FBOs; side boxes for Scientific Panels, labs, Adjudicating Officer, Tribunal]
4. 4 · Central level.
   • Food Authority with Chairperson and members.
   • CEO: legal representative and administration.
   • Central Advisory Committee chaired by the CEO.
   • Scientific Panels and Scientific Committee.
5. 5 · State and district level.
   • Commissioner of Food Safety: heads State enforcement, can prohibit a food.
   • Designated Officer: licences, improvement notices.
   • Food Safety Officer: inspects and samples.
   • Food Analyst, referral lab, Adjudicating Officer, Appellate Tribunal.
6. 6 · Functions of FSSAI. Standards and guidelines; accreditation of labs and certification bodies; scientific advice; data and rapid alerts; training and awareness; Codex work.
7. 7 · In a food business. A canteen or hospital kitchen is licensed by the Designated Officer and inspected by the Food Safety Officer.
8. 8 · Close in one line. One law, one regulator and a clear chain of officers make food safety enforceable from Delhi to the street stall.

Scoring tip: The structure chart is worth drawing even in a 5-mark answer. Write each officer's level and one duty beside the box.