FSSAI imposed fine of Rs 6 lakh on e-commerce company
Nowadays, we have become dependent on online delivery apps for every small and big need. From groceries to packed food, everything arrives at your doorstep within minutes. But there is a big risk hidden behind this modern convenience. Many times, due to haste or lack of monitoring, expired and poor quality goods are handed over to customers. Now the country’s top food regulator, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directly attacked this arbitrariness of the companies. A huge fine of Rs 6 lakh has been imposed on an e-commerce company that is playing with the health of customers through online platforms.
Major action taken after continuous complaints
It has been a matter of concern in the market for a long time that many e-commerce operators are ignoring quality control in order to increase their sales and delivery speed. FSSAI was also continuously receiving complaints from consumers in this regard. Taking these complaints very seriously, the Northern Regional Office of the Authority conducted a detailed investigation. This entire investigation process was monitored by IPS officer Devesh Kumar Mahala himself. During the investigation, the officials found that such food items were being openly sold on the e-commerce platform, whose expiry date had passed or which were no longer fit for consumption. This was a direct violation of the country’s food safety rules.
Case reached court, heavy fine imposed
Food safety is not a business issue that can be left with just a warning. When central food safety officials investigated the matter in depth, they found violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 and many other related rules. The matter was so serious that it was presented in the Additional District Commissioner (ADC) court of Gurugram under the legal process. In view of strong evidence and clear violation of rules, the court fixed a fine of Rs 6 lakh on the concerned e-commerce food business operator. This fine is a strong message to the entire e-commerce and food delivery industry that the health of the general public cannot be put at stake in the name of digital profits.
Strict instructions on licensing and labeling rules
With this major punitive action, FSSAI has made its stance very clear to the market. The authority has given strict instructions to all food business operators and online companies that they will have to follow the set standards of food safety at all costs. This simply means that doing business without proper product labeling, cleanliness and valid license will now be very costly for the companies. The regulator has made it clear that any kind of compromise or negligence with people’s health will not be tolerated at all. If any company is found violating these basic standards, it will have to face heavy fines and lengthy legal proceedings.
You also have the right to complain
The most important aspect of this entire matter is that this successful action has been possible only on the basis of active complaints from the common people. Therefore FSSAI has once again appealed to all consumers to be cautious. As a conscious citizen and consumer, if you see spoiled or expired food items being sold on any digital platform or general store, do not remain silent. You can immediately register your views on ‘Food Safety Connect App’ or other consumer complaint portals of the government.
