FSSAI Calls for State-Level Committees to Cut Pesticide Usage

FSSAI CEO G Kamala Vardhana Rao has urged states to form inter-ministerial panels to reduce pesticide use, ensuring consumer food safety. This came during FSSAI's 44th Central Advisory Committee meeting, involving over 50 officials. Other key topics covered included upgrading food testing labs and deploying mobile labs for quick assessments.

FSSAI CEO G Kamala Vardhana Rao has called on states to establish inter-ministerial panels aimed at reducing pesticide usage to guarantee consumer food safety. This directive was issued during the 44th Central Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on August 22-23.

More than 50 officials participated in the meeting, including Commissioners of Food Safety, representatives from states and Union Territories, senior FSSAI officials, and members from the food and agriculture sectors. Rao highlighted the importance of forming state-level committees to focus on minimising pesticide use, enforcing control measures, and developing strategies to monitor pesticide application at the farm level.

The initiative aims to make agricultural practices safe and sustainable, reducing health risks linked to pesticide residues in food. Discussions also included upgrading food testing laboratories, filling vacant posts of Food Safety Officers, and deploying mobile labs for quick quality assessments. Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to prioritising food safety and providing nutritious food across the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)