May 8, 2020
In a letter dated 5th May 2020 from Dr. G.S.G. Ayyangar, CEO of FSSAI is addressed to all The Chief Secretaries and all States and UTs of Union territories clarifying the relation of food with the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.
The letter is authorized to lay down science-based standards for articles of food and to standardize their manufacture, storage, distribution, sales and import ensuring availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
With the present scenario of pandemic of COVID-19, FSSAI has taken many orderly steps to facilitate the food businesses to function efficiently in these challenging times while ensuring enforcement of food safety during lockdown period.
A guidance note titled, “Food Hygiene & Safety Guidelines for Food Businesses during Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)”, has been issued by FSSAI. A resource page dedicated to COVID-19 has been created on their website including a myth buster section.
The letter further goes to mention that, FSSAI has already clarified that there is no conclusive evidences of any food borne transmission from coronaviruses. Though, several instances have been brought to the notice of the Authority where some products such as frozen food, food served cold/chilled etc… were selectively not allowed to be transported, stored or sold apparently on the concept that they could promote spread of COVID-19. FSSAI has always advocated for scientific approach where food is concern and has specifically announced that there is no evidence that COVID-19 is spread through food.
In view of above, FSSAI has requested that any such restrictions imposed at State or local level may kindly be reviewed and those not in consistent with FSSAI guidance may be withdrawn. It may be ensured that non-discriminatory approach is maintained by the States while dealing with food businesses in the lockdown and even post-lockdown period.