PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS AND FOOD SAFETY IN INDIA

AUTHOR – DR. MAHENDRAKUMAR S.  YADAV, IN-CHARGE PRINCIPAL AT M.K.E.S COLLEGE OF LAW, MUMBAI, UNIVERSITY OF MUMBAI. EMAIL –MAHENDRAYADAV@REDIFFMAIL.COM

BEST CITATION – DR. MAHENDRAKUMAR S. YADAV, PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS AND FOOD SAFETY IN INDIA, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (2) OF 2025, PG. 43-46, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

This article is published in the collaborated special issue of M.K.E.S. College of Law and the Institute of Legal Education (ILE), titled “Current Trends in Indian Legal Frameworks: A Special Edition” (ISBN: 978-81-968842-8-4).

ABSTRACT

The protection of consumers and food safety is a critical aspect of public health and economic stability in India. With increasing globalization, urbanization, and changing food habits, ensuring consumer rights and food safety has become imperative. This study explores the scope of consumer rights in India, focusing on the legal frameworks, including the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

It highlights the key rights of consumers, the role of regulatory bodies like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and initiatives to promote food safety. Challenges such as unregulated markets, food adulteration, lack of consumer awareness, and resource constraints are discussed.

Recommendations emphasize strengthening enforcement, enhancing consumer awareness, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and adopting technological innovations to ensure transparency in food supply chains. The study concludes that prioritizing consumer welfare and food safety is essential for public health, trust in markets, and sustainable economic growth in India.

Key Words: Consumer Protection, Consumer Rights, Consumer Protection Act, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, Food Adulteration