Govt asks FSSAI to take serious note of Maggi issue

The government has asked the Food safety and Standard Authority of India to look into the matter of quality issues by Nestle’s, reported PTI.

Adding to the same line, Ram Vilas Paswan, Consumer Affairs Minister, said, “ A class action suit can be initiated into the matter if a complaint with National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) is filed.”

Last month, the UP Food Safety and Drug Administration has asked Nestle India to withdraw a batch of Maggi noodles "which were manufactured in February 2014" after it found high levels of added MSG, a taste enhancer, in the noodles and lead beyond permissible limits.

Disputing the claim, Nestle India had said: "The Company does not agree with the order and is filing the requisite representations with the authorities."

"It is a serious issue. We have referred the matter to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Under the current law, FSSAI has the power to take action, including imposing fine and hefty punishment," added Paswan. Besides FSSAI, the Consumer Affairs Ministry has also asked the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) to take action against FMCG major Nestle India on the Maggi issue.

"It is a serious issue (but) the Commission has limited powers. It cannot take suo moto action. It can file class- action suit only after someone files complaint against the company," Paswan said.

NCDRC President Justice D K Jain said till now no one has filed a complaint against Nestle related to Maggi.

"There is a provision for class action. NCDRC is ready to take action after an NGO or any consumer body files a formal complaint,” added Jain.