Govt. mulling stricter norms to strengthen food safety, says Health Minister Satya Kumar

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav has urged people to actively report cases of food adulteration, saying public participation, along with government action, is essential to curb the menace.

Speaking in the Legislative Assembly on Friday, Mr. Satya Kumar informed that the inspection system was being strengthened and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) would be consulted to introduce stricter rules to put in place stronger deterrence.

Responding to questions raised by MLAs Galla Madhavi and Adireddy Srinivas, the Minister alleged that the inspection system under the Institute of Preventive Medicine had weakened during the previous government’s term, affecting public health and that the current administration was initiating steps to strengthen it.

Between 2023–24 and January 2026, a total of 16,730 food samples had been tested, of which 1,407 were found unsafe, substandard, or sold under fake brand, he said, adding that legal action, including prosecution and fines, was being taken on the offenders.

Pointing out that the current law allowed a maximum jail term of six months only for the “unsafe food” category, which was insufficient to deter offenders, the Minister said the State would discuss stronger provisions with FSSAI.

Synthetic food colours

The Minister warned against use of synthetic food colours, which, he said, were detected during inspections in cities like Guntur, Vijayawada and Rajamahendravaram.

“Such colours are reportedly used to enhance the appearance of foods like chilli chicken or jaggery, but they can be harmful to health and may lead to serious diseases, including cancer, if consumed regularly,” the Minister said, informing that awareness campaigns were being conducted through posters, pamphlets and hoardings at public places such as railway stations and bus stands.

The Minister said the government was monitoring e-commerce “dark stores” (quick commerce outlets). “There are 277 such stores in the State and all of them must obtain licences from FSSAI,” he said.