FSSAI CEO calls for increased inspection in high-risk food establishment in Tamil Nadu

G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), emphasised the need for intensified inspections of high-risk food establishments in Tamil Nadu. 
Speaking at a meeting with senior officials, including Lalvena, Principal Secretary and Food Safety Commissioner of Tamil Nadu, Rao launched the Food Import Rejection Alert (FIRA) portal, a platform providing updates on rejected imported food consignments.
Rao highlighted the importance of periodically reviewing food testing laboratories and urged expedited progress on the development of healthy and hygienic food streets at various locations to benefit the public.
During his visit to the Southern Regional Office of FSSAI and the National Food Laboratory in Chennai, Rao engaged with senior officials to review ongoing operations. He also met with ARS Kumar, Chief Commissioner of Chennai Customs, and discussed food import clearance processes.
Rao highlighted the significance of the FIRA portal in providing timely updates to exporters, importers, and stakeholders on reasons for food import rejections, helping them comply with regulatory standards. He further stressed the importance of capacity building among Customs officials to streamline food safety regulations and facilitate green channel clearance processes.