FSSAI gets online access to food standards of over 170 countries

For this purpose, FSSAI has entered into an agreement with US-based Decernis Limited. Under this agreement, Decernis will facilitate access to various international regulations through a user-friendly online platform. This global database can be searched by any substance or topic (e.g. ‘Sweeteners and Syrups)’ and Text Search (e.g. ‘Milk’ & ‘Mycotoxin’). This database will facilitate in process of standards setting as the system will provide a single platform to search for international regulations which will enable the Scientific Panels in understanding the global standards and also bench-marking Indian regulation to international standards. The database will also be of immense help in the risk assessment.

Under the agreement, FSSAI has agreed to provide Decernis, the notices of new draft and final Regulations, and Decernis will integrate Indian draft and final standards into its systems to improve the understanding and compliance of users. FSSAI will also assist in occasional client questions regarding the regulations of food standards, food additives, food contact substances, contaminants and pesticide residues. Commenting on this development, Pawan Agarwal, CEO FSSAI stated that “as per the Good Regulatory Practices, international practices are required to be taken into account, while framing the national standards or guidelines.” This module would help FSSAI in accessing various regulations and practices followed globally. Mr Kevin C. Kenny, COO, Decernis expressed his enthusiasm to cooperate with FSSAI “to improve safety for the food production supply chain, which will ultimately benefit consumers. Food compliance across borders, languages and cultures can be remarkably complex, and government-industry cooperation such as this represents another step toward improving global food safety.” A training session was also organised for officials of FSSAI in understanding the use of the module.