Q1. With reference to food safety regulation in India, consider the following statements:

1. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
2. Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011 deals with hygiene and sanitary requirements for food business operators.
3. The responsibility for ensuring food safety during transportation rests exclusively with the food manufacturer and does not extend to other food business operators involved in the supply chain.
4. Temperature control for perishable foods is important because unsuitable storage conditions can promote microbial growth and food spoilage.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only 

(c) 2 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: (b)

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: FSSAI is a statutory body established under the 2006 Act and functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• Statement 2 is correct: Schedule 4 prescribes hygiene and sanitary requirements for food businesses.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Food safety obligations extend to relevant operators throughout the supply chain, including storage and transportation.
• Statement 4 is correct: Improper temperature control can facilitate microbial growth, accelerate spoilage and increase foodborne illness risks.