Daily Current Affairs: 26-April-2024

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently made headlines for a controversial decision to increase the maximum residue limit (MRL) of pesticides in Indian herbs and spices. This change, which raises the limit by tenfold, has sparked criticism and concerns about food safety in the country. Understanding the role of FSSAI and the implications of this decision is essential.

What is FSSAI?

The FSSAI is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, in 2006. Its main purpose is to ensure food safety and hygiene across the country. Here are some key responsibilities of FSSAI:

  • Setting Standards: FSSAI sets science-based standards for food products to ensure safety.
  • Regulating Food: It oversees the manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food items.
  • Public Awareness: FSSAI promotes awareness regarding food safety and nutrition.

The Controversial Decision

The recent decision by FSSAI to increase pesticide limits in herbs and spices has raised eyebrows. Critics argue that:

  • Lack of Transparency: FSSAI has not provided clear information about the data used for this decision. This absence of transparency is alarming to consumers and health experts alike.
  • Safety Concerns: With the new limits being significantly higher, there are worries about the potential health risks associated with consuming these products. Pesticides can have harmful effects on human health, and the increase in allowed limits may lead to higher exposure.

Important Points:

  • FSSAI Overview:
  • Established in 2006 under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
  • Responsible for food safety and hygiene in India.
  • Sets science-based standards for food products.
  • Recent Controversy:
  • FSSAI increased the maximum residue limit (MRL) of pesticides in herbs and spices by tenfold.
  • Decision has faced criticism and raised safety concerns.
  • Key Criticisms:
  • Lack of Transparency: Insufficient information on the data used for the decision.
  • Health Risks: Increased limits may lead to higher exposure to harmful pesticides.
  • Importance of Trust:
  • Public trust in food safety authorities is crucial.
  • FSSAI needs to provide clearer information and maintain rigorous safety standards.

Why In News

The Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has faced significant criticism for dramatically increasing the maximum residue limit (MRL) of pesticides in Indian herbs and spices by tenfold, raising serious concerns among consumers and health experts about the potential impact on food safety.

MCQs about Concerns Over FSSAI’s Increased Pesticide Limits

  1. What is the primary role of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)?
    A. To regulate the prices of food products
    B. To ensure food safety and hygiene
    C. To promote agricultural practices
    D. To import foreign food products
    Correct Answer: B. To ensure food safety and hygiene
    Explanation: FSSAI is responsible for ensuring food safety and hygiene across India, setting standards, and regulating food products.
  2. By how much did FSSAI increase the maximum residue limit (MRL) of pesticides in Indian herbs and spices?
    A. Twofold
    B. Fivefold
    C. Tenfold
    D. Fifteenfold
    Correct Answer: C. Tenfold
    Explanation: FSSAI increased the MRL of pesticides in Indian herbs and spices by tenfold, which has led to public criticism and concern.
  3. What concern has been raised regarding FSSAI’s recent decision?
    A. Increased production of herbs
    B. Lack of transparency in data used
    C. Higher import tariffs on spices
    D. Decrease in herb prices
    Correct Answer: B. Lack of transparency in data used
    Explanation: Critics have pointed out that FSSAI has not provided sufficient information regarding the data used to make the decision, raising transparency issues.
  4. Why is public trust in food safety authorities like FSSAI important?
    A. It affects the economy of the country
    B. It ensures compliance with international trade agreements
    C. It is crucial for consumer confidence in food safety
    D. It determines the pricing of food products
    Correct Answer: C. It is crucial for consumer confidence in food safety
    Explanation: Public trust in food safety authorities is essential for ensuring that consumers feel confident in the safety and quality of the food they consume.

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