Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has issued mandatory guidelines for individuals preparing and selling bakery items, snacks and other food products through local vending points and social media platforms.
The FDA said it has recently observed that several individuals are preparing bakery products and snacks and vending them in various local areas by setting up tables or using the boots of cars. Many such vendors are also promoting their food businesses through social media.
While encouraging new businesses to establish themselves, the Directorate stressed that all Food Business Operators (FBOs) must comply with the required legal procedures and maintain basic food safety and hygiene standards.
As per the guidelines, every local vendor operating in a local area must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the concerned local body, including the panchayat, municipal council or Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), before commencing vending activities.
The vendors must also obtain an FSSAI registration certificate for their kitchen or place of food preparation and ensure that all stipulated hygiene norms are followed both at the preparation site and the vending area.
The FDA further clarified that individuals must not accept orders from homes for cakes or pastries without obtaining the required FSSAI registration.
The Directorate has warned that vendors operating without the necessary permissions must immediately refrain from vending activities and stop promoting their businesses through social media. Failure to comply may result in penal action under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The FDA has advised such vendors to visit the FDA help desk with the stipulated documents for assistance and guidance in obtaining the necessary permissions.
The advisory was issued by Shweta S. Dessai, Director of Food and Drugs Administration.
