The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has advised people to report any food safety concerns in a restaurant, rather than simply leaving a bad review for the restaurant, if they notice any food that is stale, unhygienic kitchens, or unsafe food handling practices.

The country’s food safety watchdog has urged citizens to inform the food safety regulator about such violations on its Food Safety Connect platform in order to enhance food safety law enforcement.

According to News18, the program is part of FSSAI’s work to raise the hygiene standards in restaurants, food outlets, and online food businesses, which includes bringing citizens to the forefront in identifying unsafe food practices. Food Safety Connect mobile application and web portal are used for submitting complaints and uploading photos as and when evidence is available.

Also Read | Indian-Origin NASA Astronaut Anil Menon set for historic first ISS mission on July 14

FSSAI appeals to the citizens to be the change

In a public appeal, FSSAI encouraged people not to ignore food safety violations.

“Don’t just notice it, report it! Unsafe food practices affect everyone. Turn your awareness into action with the Food Safety Connect App,” the regulator said in a post on X.

According to FSSAI’s portal, complaints can be lodged against food establishments, packaged food products and online food delivery platforms if food safety or hygiene-related issues are detected.

How to report a food safety complaint?

To file a complaint, download the Food Safety Connect mobile application or visit the online grievance portal. After registering or logging in with a mobile number or email ID, select the option to file a new complaint. The relevant category, such as a restaurant, packaged food product or online food delivery platform, should then be chosen. Details of the food business and the nature of the issue need to be entered before uploading photographs or any other supporting evidence, if available. Once the complaint is submitted, its progress can be tracked through the platform.

Complaints accompanied by detailed information and images enable officials to investigate cases more efficiently and take appropriate regulatory action wherever necessary.

Why reporting matters

With consumer involvement, it is possible to detect violations that the routine inspection may not uncover, say food safety experts to News18.

Reporting of unsafe food, unhygienic kitchens, or improper food handling practices can help to improve public health and food hygiene standards throughout the country. The initiative aims to engage citizens as active stakeholders in this effort to ensure safe food for all.

Also Read | Maharashtra trims Ladki Bahin beneficiaries after statewide verification

FAQs

Q1: What can be reported to FSSAI?

Unsafe food, unhygienic kitchens, stale food, poor food handling practices, packaged food issues, and complaints related to online food delivery platforms can all be reported.

Q2: Is proof required while filing a complaint?

No. However, photographs or other supporting evidence can help authorities investigate and act on the complaint more effectively.