Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Emphasizes the Importance of Nutritious Food for a Healthy Nation
Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh – In a significant development in the realm of food safety and standards, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, inaugurated the National Training Centre for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) yesterday. The state-of-the-art training center aims to bridge the knowledge and skills gap in the field of food safety and standards, promoting the health and well-being of the nation.
FSSAI takes strong action against food adulteration, ensuring quality standards are followed
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in his address, highlighted the vital role of good quality nutritious food in maintaining a healthy population. He stressed the need to adopt India’s traditional food habits and way of life, emphasizing that “our kitchen is our hospital.” By incorporating these practices into daily life, individuals can keep diseases at bay, contributing to a healthier society.
The Union Minister also drew attention to the issue of food adulteration, stating that FSSAI, in collaboration with State Authorities, has formed a team to crack down on those engaging in such malpractices. With zero tolerance for food adulteration, large-scale testing will be conducted nationwide, and strict action will be taken against offenders in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
The National Training Centre, also referred to as “Lok Swasth Arpan Bhawan,” assumes the crucial responsibility of setting food standards that impact the lives of every citizen. It plays a vital role in providing structured instruction, practice, and learning experiences to enhance the knowledge and skills of individuals involved in food businesses, including food business operators, employees, Food Safety Officers, and designated officers.
Launch of Food Safety and Certification App and release of two informative books by FSSAI
To further strengthen food safety measures, the FSSAI launched the Food Safety and Certification (FoSTaC) E-Learning App for street vendors. This app offers comprehensive learning and training modules on food safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and hygiene practices. Street vendors can now access valuable information to ensure the delivery of safe and hygienic food to consumers.
During the event, Dr. Mandaviya also released two informative books developed by the FSSAI. The first book, “Millets (Shree Anna) Recipes – A Healthy Menu for Mess/Canteens,” promotes the consumption of millets as a nutritious dietary option. The second book, “Healthy Gut, Healthy You – Traditional Recipes with Potential Probiotic Benefits,” focuses on the importance of gut health and provides traditional recipes that offer potential probiotic benefits.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by esteemed individuals, including Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State (HFW), General (Dr.) V.K. Singh, Minister of State (Civil Aviation, MoRTH), and senior officials of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This significant milestone in the field of food safety sets the stage for a healthier and prosperous nation.
With the launch of the National Training Centre, the crackdown on food adulteration, and the introduction of innovative tools like the FoSTaC E-Learning App, the FSSAI continues to prioritize the well-being of citizens by ensuring the provision of safe and wholesome food throughout the country.