• The Union Cabinet approved the signing of an agreement between the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for cooperation in the area of food safety.

• The move is aimed at fostering closer ties and promoting trade between India and Bhutan.

• The agreement seeks to enhance cooperation in ensuring the safety and quality of food products traded between India and Bhutan.

• Under the terms of the agreement, BFDA will collaborate closely with FSSAI to streamline processes related to food safety compliance.

• BFDA will issue a Health Certificate as proof of compliance with the requirements prescribed by FSSAI for products exported to India.

• This collaborative approach is expected to significantly ease the process of doing business between India and Bhutan, reducing compliance costs for businesses on both sides.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has been established under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 which consolidates various Acts and orders that have hitherto handled food related issues in various ministries and departments. 

• The FSSAI is a statutory body established under the ministry of health and family welfare.

• FSSAI was created for laying down scientific standards for food articles and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.

The main functions of FSSAI include:

i) Setting globally benchmarked regulations, standards and guidelines.

ii) Facilitating compliance through licensing, registration, inspection and improved laboratory network.

iii) Building capacity of regulatory staff as well as food business operators.

iv) Driving public health initiatives in the true spirit of convergence.

v) Leveraging IEC (Information, Education & Communication) and BCC (behaviour change communication) techniques to build a food safety culture.

vi) Embracing technology to streamline processes. 

vii) Forging strategic partnerships to generate and exchange knowledge and best practices.

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