The food business ecosystem is large and the 14-digit FSSAI number of any food business operator is not easily visible and available to consumer/service recipient.
If the FSSAI number is not available to the consumer, expecting him to complain about complete coordinates is an uphill task.
Even regulators find it difficult to trace the origin of the complaint and attend to it promptly.
No database can be created without a unique locator code, which in the case of food safety is the FSSAI number.
Gripping in mind the various obstacles faced by different consumers, the modern amendment can be a life rescuer for many.
Presently, FSSAI number is mandatory to be presented on packaged food labels but the issue lies especially in the case of establishments such as restaurants, mithai shops, caterers, even retail stores.
After the approval of the Food Authority, it is now mandatory to declare the 14-digit FSSAI License or Registration No. on cash receipts, purchase invoices, cash memos, bills, etc. by all food businesses.
The only exemption is the GST E-way bills and other Govt. documents which are system generated.
Non-mentioning of the 14-digit FSSAI License or Registration No. will be a non-compliance or non-registration/licensing by the food business.
Since complaints remain unresolved due to a lack of specific information, this move will assist consumers too;
- Lodge an online complaint against a particular food business using the FSSAI number.
- Consumers can have access to the particular food business which is publicly available at FSSAI’s portals.
- The consumer can visit the “FSSAI portal” or the “Food Safety Connect” app for accessing information about the FSSAI license or registration by inputting the 14 digit FSSAI License or Registration No.
Mentioning of FSSAI number shall also improve the overall awareness.
Given the above, the food businesses shall be required to mention the 14 digit FSSAI License or Registration No. on cash receipts, purchase invoices, cash memos, bills, etc.
Licensing and registration authorities are directed to widely publicize the policy and shall ensure its implementation mandatorily with effect from October 2, 2021.
