Sanoj Kumar Jha, the additional secretary of the ministry of food processing industries, stressed the importance of implementing stringent food safety standards to build trust among consumers both within India and internationally. He emphasized that food safety plays a pivotal role in propelling the rapid growth of the Indian food processing sector.
During Sanoj Kumar Jha address at the ‘FICCI conference on Capability Enhancement for Safe Food Business and Accession Ceremony of All India Cadre of Safe Food Business Professionals,’ Jha highlighted the significance of India’s agriculture and processed food industries, particularly in the context of the pandemic. He noted that many countries are now keen on establishing robust food security measures and emphasized the need to adhere to export-related food safety standards prevalent in various nations.
“It is not just for exports, but also for domestic consumption and health concerns that we must ensure the food we eat and export meets minimum standards. Complying with the standards set by countries like Europe, the US, or Africa is critical for successful exports,” asserted Jha.
He also underlined the dynamic nature of food safety regulations and norms set by the food safety and standards authority of India (FSSAI). Jha mentioned that the FSSAI continually improves regulations to strengthen food safety measures.
“The norms will continue to become more stringent in the future,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of ensuring food safety even among local street food vendors.
Jha called on all stakeholders to collaborate and work together to ensure safe food consumption and export practices.
Prabhat K Nema, director at the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM), highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in enhancing capacity in the food processing industry. He pointed out NIFTEM’s collaborations with leading institutions and industry partners to develop courses aimed at nurturing skilled business leaders capable of meeting the evolving needs of the industry.
