Introduction
Food safety is crucial for public health, and the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA), 1954, aims to curb food adulteration in India. If one comes across contaminated or adulterated food, they have the right to file a complaint to ensure action is taken against violators. This guide explains the steps to file a complaint under the Act.
What Are The Steps To File A Complaint Under The Prevention Of Food Adulteration Act?
Identify the Issue
Check for signs of adulteration such as unusual color, smell, taste, or texture.
Look for visible contaminants, misleading labels, or expired products.
Ensure you have evidence like photographs, purchase receipts, or lab reports.
Collect the Sample
If possible, retain a portion of the adulterated food product.
Keep the original packaging intact, as it contains essential details like batch number, manufacturer details, and expiry date.
Approach the Local Food Safety Officer
Every district has a food safety officer (FSO) appointed under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Visit your nearest FSO office and report the issue with proof.
What Is The Format Of A Complaint:
Your name, address, and contact details.
Product details such as brand name, batch number, and place of purchase.
Nature of adulteration and its effects (if any).
Attach any supporting documents, including purchase bills and photographs.
Request Sample Testing
You can ask the FSO to send the sample to a government-approved food testing laboratory. The test report will confirm whether the product violates the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act.
File a Complaint With the Consumer Court (Optional). If authorities fail to take action, you can approach the consumer disputes redressal commission (consumer court).
Lodge a complaint under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, demanding compensation for damages.
Report to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
You can file an online complaint on the FSSAI portal (https://fssai.gov.in).
Call the FSSAI helpline number 1800-11-2100 to report the issue.
Legal Action Against the Offender
If the adulteration is severe, legal proceedings will be initiated under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act.
The offender may face penalties, fines, or imprisonment based on the severity of the violation.
Conclusion
Filing a complaint under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act is an essential step in ensuring food safety. By identifying adulteration, gathering evidence, and reporting to authorities, you contribute to preventing public health risks. Whether you approach the food safety officer, consumer court, or FSSAI, taking action can help hold offenders accountable and promote safer food standards. Always stay vigilant and report any suspected food adulteration promptly.
