Codex Alimentarius:

• Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Sets international food standards, codes of practice, and other guidelines.

• Promotes fair practices in food trade.

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS):

• National standards organization of India.

• Formulates standards for a wide range of products, including food.

• Grants the ISI Mark to products that meet these standards.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

• Responsible for ensuring food safety and hygiene in India.

• Regulates and oversees the food manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, sale, and import.

• Issues licenses to food businesses and enforces food safety regulations.

Agmark:

• A certification mark for agricultural products in India.

• Ensures that the products meet the quality standards set by the Government of India.

• Covers a variety of agricultural products like fruits, vegetables, spices, and processed foods.

ISI Mark:

• A certification mark granted by BIS for products that conform to Indian Standards.

• Not exclusive to food products and applies to a wide range of industrial and consumer goods.

FPO (Farmer Producer Organizations):

• Not a regulatory body but play a role in ensuring food quality.

• Groups of farmers who come together to improve production, processing, and marketing of agricultural products.

• Can implement their own quality control measures and standards.

These organizations work together to ensure that food products are safe, hygienic, and meet the required quality standards.

Controlling food quality:

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a vital role in ensuring food quality in India. Here's how:

Setting Standards: BIS establishes science-based standards for a wide range of food products, including milk and milk products, spices, pulses, edible oils, fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. These standards set parameters for factors like safety, purity, quality, and minimum requirements.

Product Certification: BIS operates a voluntary product certification scheme. Manufacturers can apply for certification, which involves inspections and testing to ensure their products meet BIS standards. Products that comply are eligible to display the ISI mark, a trusted symbol of quality recognized by consumers.

Enforcement: While the certification scheme is voluntary, BIS collaborates with government agencies to enforce mandatory certification for certain food products. This ensures that essential food items meet basic safety and quality requirements.

Benefits of BIS Certification:

• Consumer Confidence: The ISI mark signifies that the product adheres to BIS standards, promoting consumer trust and encouraging informed purchase decisions.

• Improved Quality: Following BIS standards encourages manufacturers to maintain consistent quality and hygiene throughout the production process.

• Fair Competition: BIS standards create a level playing field for businesses, ensuring that all players compete based on quality rather than compromising on safety.

Limitations:

• Voluntary Participation: Not all manufacturers participate in the BIS certification scheme, leaving room for unregulated products in the market.

• Focus on Products, Not Processes: BIS standards primarily address the quality of the end product and may not comprehensively cover aspects like farm practices or storage conditions.

Conclusion:

BIS plays a significant role in safeguarding food quality in India by establishing standards, providing certification, and collaborating with regulatory bodies. While limitations exist, BIS initiatives contribute to a safer and more reliable food supply for consumers.

Role of BIS in ensuring Food Quality: