In this story:
- FSAB to push for revision of outdated food regulations
- Board to consider applications for use or introduction of new food products
By Maricho Reporter
A new 16-member Food Standards Advisory Board (FSAB) unveiled recently will push for the revision of outdated food regulations such as the soft drink regulations, Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora has said.
FSAB is tasked with certifying food products for purposes of local sale, export and import.
Dr Mombeshora, said the board, which will run for a three-year tenure until 2027, will be the de facto National CODEX Committee (NCC)- a collection of standards, guidelines and codes of practice adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
Therefore, the board will be required to participate in the international food standards setting activity of CODEX.
“It is appointed according to the provisions of the Food and Food Standards (FFA) Act, Chapter 15:04 and is largely expected to play an advisory role on food standards,” said Dr Mombeshora.
FSAB is chaired by Panganayi Hare and is appointed according to the provisions of the Food and Food Standards (FFA) Act, Chapter 15:04.
“Noteworthy are some successes of your predecessor the 6th FSAB. Despite limited sittings due to the Covid 19 pandemic, they managed to certify more than 90 bottled water brands. Several pre-mix suppliers were certified under the food fortification programme and more than 20 food products were also certified. There is outstanding work that you need to complete which includes revision of outdated food regulations such as the soft drink regulations and many others,” said Dr Mombeshora.
FSAB Mandate
In accordance with Section 18, subsection 5 of the Act, the broad function of the FSAB is to advise the Minister of Health on all matters relating to Food and Food Standards.
Specifically:
- In accordance to SI 5 of 2015 to certify on behalf of the Minister, food products for purposes of local sale, export and import.
- To consider applications for use or introduction of new food products, ingredients or food articles on the market and advise the Minister of Health accordingly.
- To formulate food safety and quality policy and advise the Minister of Health accordingly.
- To amend and revise food laws and regulations then advise the Minister of Health.
- To carry out risk analysis for food contaminants and advise the Minister accordingly.
- To assist in the education of consumers on food safety and quality issues.
