Panaji: The food and drugs administration (FDA) said it is mandatory for home-based bakers and snack sellers to obtain FSSAI registration and local body permissions or face legal action.The FDA said it has noticed through social media that many individuals are preparing and selling bakery products and snacks from their homes, roadside tables and even car boots while promoting their businesses online.FDA director Shweta Dessai said that while the department encourages entrepreneurship, food businesses must comply with legal requirements and maintain food safety and hygiene standards.Vendors must obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the local body, secure FSSAI registration for their kitchen and adhere to prescribed hygiene norms at both preparation and vending sites.“Those operating without the required permissions should immediately stop vending activities and discontinue promoting their businesses on social media. Failure to comply will invite action under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006,” Dessai said. She said that the FDA helpdesk is available to assist applicants in securing the necessary approvals.FDA has also launched a special drive against unlicensed caterers and unregistered party halls, directing them to obtain licences within the next three weeks.Dessai said that caterers and party halls found operating without an FSSAI licence could face prosecution and penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh under the Food Safety and Standards Act.She said any individual or group involved in preparing, storing, serving or transporting food for functions, celebrations, rituals or institutional events, including small gatherings, must hold a valid FSSAI licence. Food handlers must also possess valid sanitary cards and comply with hygiene requirements.FDA director said that party and banquet halls, including private venues and those attached to religious institutions, require FSSAI registration or licences if they host food-related events. Such facilities must maintain proper kitchen and pantry infrastructure, safe drinking water and adequate waste-disposal systems in line with food safety norms.
