New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, addressed the Regional Conclave on “Enhancing Regional Collaboration & Harmonization in Standard Setting Process” at the ongoing second edition of the Global Food Regulators Summit 2024. The event, hosted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), is being held alongside World Food India 2024, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries at Bharat Mandapam. The regional conclave aims to strengthen regional collaboration and harmonize food safety standards across Asia.
In her keynote address, Patel underscored the significance of the Asian region in global food production, noting that this prominence brings a responsibility to ensure food safety, promote public health, and support fair trade practices in line with international standards. “This conclave reaffirms a stronger, more collaborative approach to food safety and standards within the Asia region,” she stated. “It is a vital milestone in our collective journey toward a safer and healthier food system, not just for our region but for the entire world.”
Patel highlighted the challenges facing the region, including disparities in regulatory frameworks, institutional capacities, and technical expertise, as well as the lack of awareness among national stakeholders about food safety standards. She called for increased regional cooperation, emphasizing the need to pool resources, share expertise, and align strategies to elevate the region’s role in shaping international food standards. “Only through unity and cooperation can we strengthen our ability to meet international food safety standards,” she remarked.
The Minister also stressed the importance of focusing on emerging sectors such as aquaculture, processed foods, and organic farming, along with new technologies like biotechnology and sustainable farming. “These advancements are critical as we strive to make our food systems safer, more resilient, and sustainable for the future,” she added. Patel expressed optimism that the conclave would drive meaningful progress towards harmonizing food safety across Asia, facilitating seamless trade and improving food safety for all populations.
G. Kamala Vardhan Rao, CEO of FSSAI, echoed these sentiments, stating that Asia faces unique challenges that differ from other regions. “This conclave provides a valuable opportunity to discuss regional issues that have global impacts, including emerging markets, new food products, and standardization processes,” he said.
Steve Wearne, Chairperson of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, emphasized the diversity of the Asian region in terms of cultures, climates, and food production systems. He highlighted the importance of the conclave in addressing regulatory disparities and fostering collaboration. “Each member country brings unique knowledge to the table, and this platform offers an opportunity for meaningful discussions on food standards and quality control,” he stated.
Dr. Vincent Arbuckle, Deputy Director General of New Zealand Food Safety, lauded the summit as an excellent opportunity for nations to learn from one another and demonstrate food safety leadership. “This collaboration will enhance government cooperation, capability-building, and harmonization of food safety systems, ultimately benefiting consumers, food businesses, and international trade,” he said.