BALLARI:The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), now told to scrutinise samples of Maggi noodles, is in dire need of staff. According to a highly-placed source at FSSAI in Bengaluru, about 70 per cent of its posts in Karnataka are vacant.
In many districts, the watchdog has no designated officers. For instance, in Koppal in northern Karnataka, senior food safety officials, who are below the rank of designated officers, are looking into adulteration complaints. In other districts, its food safety officers have no support staff.
Of the 200 sanctioned posts, only 66 have been filled, and that too in the lower ranks, many of whom work on contract. Computer operators and Group D staff account for 50 per cent of those employed, while the rest are food safety officers and designated officers.
The FSSAI is a Central body and works in tandem with the states. The source told Express taluk centres have no staff or building. A designated officer has to look after the entire district. Koppal district has had no designated officer since 2012.
A food safety officer in Hosapete has been given additional charge of Koppal.
Food safety officers in the districts have no vehicles or staff to collect samples from the taluks. In the wake of the Maggi controversy, they have been asked to go around and get samples.
Dr Shivakumar, joint director, FSSAI in Bengaluru, told Express the orders on checking and collecting samples would be implemented in the districts with the support of state health and family welfare staff.
Statewide Operations
Following the nationwide outcry against excessive lead in Maggi noodles, FSSAI in Bengaluru has directed all designated officers in the districts to collect samples of suspect foods.