Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) have become prominent in the modern food production landscape, presenting potential benefits as well as possible risks. A recent Right to Information (RTI) inquiry revealed that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) lacks comprehensive data on GMOs in imported produce over the last five years, sparking concerns about the presence of GM varieties in fruits and vegetables sold in India.
FSSAI and its Data on GMOs
The RTI investigation exposed that FSSAI doesn’t possess information on conducted tests for detecting GM varieties in imported goods. This lack of data has raised questions about FSSAI’s efficacy in regulatory oversight and potential impacts on consumer health and trust. The FSSAI, established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is an autonomous statutory body responsible for maintaining food safety standards and guidelines and granting food safety licenses. Despite this, it appears to be falling short in its control of GMO imports.
Understanding Genetically Modified Organisms
GMO refers to any organism, be it animal, plant, or microorganism, whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering methods. This genetic modification allows researchers to insert specific traits or characteristics into an organism. Currently, around 12 GMO species are being farmed globally, with permitted large-scale farming in 28 countries, as per a report by The Royal Society, a London-based scientific fellowship.
India’s Stance on GMOs
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, forbids the import, manufacture, use, or sale of GM food without FSSAI’s approval in India. Until now, only one GMO, namely cotton, has been allowed for cultivation and import. In 2022, despite some objections, India permitted the commercial cultivation of GM mustard.
Import of GMO in India
The US, Brazil, and Argentina, the largest countries in terms of land under GMO cultivation, are also significant food exporters to India. The importation of fresh fruits and vegetables to India has soared by 25% over the past decade, according to the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which undoubtedly raises concerns about the GM content in these imports.
Concerns Raised by the RTI Investigation
The RTI inquiry highlighted several critical issues. First, unknown GM presence in imported produce poses potential health risks due to the uncertainty of GMOs’ long-term impacts on human health. Secondly, there’s ambiguity in regulating and monitoring the import and sale of genetically modified fruits and vegetables due to data dearth. Lastly, these revelations might undermine public confidence in the oversight and safety measures concerning food imports.
About FSSAI
FSSAI is an independent statutory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, overseen by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Its functions include regulating food safety standards, licensing food businesses, suggesting policies to the government, collecting food contamination data, and promoting general awareness about food safety. It currently has its headquarters in Delhi.
Previous Year Question on UPSC Civil Services Examination
In 2018, a question related to FSSAI was posed: “The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”
