The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has exercised its powers under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, to notify an additional 180 officers as Food Safety Officers, effective immediately. The notification amends the principal notification of July 2, 2025, by inserting new entries in the list of designated FSOs.
Focus on Fortified Rice Kernel
All newly appointed officers are specifically designated as Food Safety Officers for the Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK). This targeted appointment underscores the FSSAI’s commitment to the national strategy of rice fortification—a process of adding essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12 to regular rice.
The appointment of a dedicated cadre of FSOs for FRK is crucial for:
- Ensuring that FRK manufacturers comply with all prescribed standards, including the fortification levels and quality specifications.
- Conducting regular inspections of FRK production units, storage facilities, and distribution channels.
- Drawing samples and ensuring proper laboratory testing to monitor the quality and compliance of fortified rice being supplied, particularly under government schemes.
List of Appointees
The list includes a mix of male and female officers from various regions, ready to take up their responsibilities under Section 37 of the Act.
This substantial increase in FSOs is expected to enhance the FSSAI’s oversight capability and ensure the successful, safe, and effective execution of the food fortification program, which is vital for combating micronutrient deficiencies and improving public health outcomes across the country.