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Over 5.18 lakh food samples analysed in three Years, 88,192 penalties imposed by Govt
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Saturday, 21 March, 2026, 13 : 00 PM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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In a major crackdown on food safety violations, the Government of India revealed that over 5.18 lakh food samples were analysed across the country over the last three fiscal years. The intensified surveillance, conducted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in coordination with State and Union Territory authorities, resulted in the imposition of 88,192 penalties to ensure public health and consumer protection.
According to data presented in Parliament, the rigorous testing focused on identifying sub-standard, misbranded, and unsafe food products. Out of the total samples analysed between 2021 and 2024, a significant portion was found to be in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This led to thousands of civil and criminal cases being filed against defaulting food business operators (FBOs).
The government’s proactive stance is reflected in the high number of convictions and penalties. In addition to the 88,192 civil penalties, there were several thousand criminal convictions for more serious offenses, including food adulteration. These enforcement actions have resulted in the collection of substantial fines, aimed at deterring businesses from compromising on quality standards.
"The safety of our citizens is paramount," a senior official from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare stated. "We have significantly increased the capacity of our state-owned and NABL-accredited private laboratories to ensure that surveillance is not just widespread but also scientifically robust."
To support this massive analytical undertaking, the government has been providing financial assistance to States and UTs for the procurement of advanced laboratory equipment and the deployment of "Food Safety on Wheels"—mobile testing units that provide on-the-spot results in markets and rural areas.
As the FSSAI continues to strengthen its regulatory framework, the focus is shifting toward "preventive" safety, including the mandatory training of food handlers and stricter licensing norms. This latest report underscores the government’s commitment to achieving a "zero-tolerance" policy toward food adulteration, ensuring that the food reaching Indian households meets global safety benchmarks.
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