What Regulations are drafted by FSSAI
on No GMOs in Food Items

What are Genetically Modified
Organisms?

Genetically Modified Organisms
(GMOs) are organisms that have been altered in some way.

An animal, plant, or microorganism
that has had its DNA altered via genetic engineering techniques is referred to
as a genetically modified organism (GMO). Humans have been creating methods to
modify creatures for thousands of years, such as cattle, corn, and even dogs,
which have been carefully selected over generations to have particular
desirable qualities. Modern biotechnology has allowed scientists to directly
edit the DNA of bacteria, crops, and animals in the last few decades.

Food firms cannot make or sell any
food items or food ingredients generated from genetically modified organisms
without prior clearance, according to the Food Safety Authority of India
(FSSAI) proposed regulations (GMOs).

GMO regulations are being drafted by
the FSSAI.

·        
Food firms cannot make or sell any food items or food ingredients
generated from genetically modified organisms without prior clearance,
according to the Food Safety Authority of India (FSSAI) proposed regulations
(GMOs).

·        
Despite this, trade groups representing food companies have
stated that GMOs should be outright banned.

·        
The restrictions apply to food products that may have been
created with GMO-derived food components or processing aids, even if GM
material is not present in the final product.

·        
No person shall make, store, distribute, sell, or import in
the country any food or food ingredient, as the case may be, derived from
Genetically Modified Organisms, unless prior approval of the Food Security
Committee has been obtained,” the draught regulations state. The requirements
of this regulation are in addition to, not in lieu of, any other rules or
regulations promulgated under the Act.”

·        
Experts in the field “GM food has the potential to have
negative consequences for the environment, human health, and trade security.”

·        
“GMOs should be fully banned, and there should be no
provision for any firm to receive ‘pre permission.’” “Some regions in the UK
where GM crops have been utilised have resulted in the mass death of honeybees,
indicating that it may not be fit for human consumption as well” — citing
examples of GM crops’ negative consequences.