FSSAI asks milk suppliers to register, launches drive to curb adulteration

New Delhi: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked all independent milk producers and suppliers across the country to obtain compulsory registration or license, warning that many independent milk producers and suppliers operate outside the food safety regulatory system.In an advisory issued on March 11, the food regulator said that some milk producers who are not part of dairy cooperatives as well as local milk suppliers are selling milk without registering it with FSSAI. Such registration is mandatory under food safety rules.The agency has now directed states and union territories to ensure that all such producers and suppliers register with the FSSAI before continuing to operate.The move was prompted by concerns over adulteration of milk. FSSAI has asked state food safety authorities to verify whether milk sellers have valid registration or license and take action in case of non-compliance.Officials have also been directed to inspect milk coolers used for storage to ensure proper temperature control and hygiene as improper storage can lead to spoilage and contamination.States have been asked to conduct special registration drives so that all milk producers and suppliers come under the food safety regulatory framework.The FSSAI said it has ordered regular enforcement actions against milk and dairy products and asked states to submit a fortnightly report on the action taken.The regulator said the initiative aims to improve the traceability and safety of milk sold to consumers and prevent adulteration in the supply chain.