Hemant Koshia, Commissioner, Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA), Gujarat
In a landscape where food safety and regulatory challenges are ever-evolving, Hemant Koshia, Commissioner at Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) Gujarat has been at the forefront for the past 15 years. This extended tenure is a testament to his dedication, vision, and ability to navigate the complex terrain of food safety and public health. Under his leadership, Gujarat has pioneered several initiatives to ensure food safety standards, tackle food fraud, and keep pace with innovations in the food and beverage sector, including the rise of online platforms and functional foods. In a conversation with NUFFOODS Spectrum, Koshia discusses the evolving regulatory policies, the unique challenges faced by the state, and the strategic steps being taken to enhance food safety and how Gujarat is leading the way in safeguarding public health while fostering industry growth. Edited excerpts:
You have held the position of FDCA Commissioner for the past 15 years, which is quite rare in such a dynamic field. How has this long tenure helped you in shaping and implementing effective regulatory policies in the food and beverage sector?
What key insights have you gained during this period that have significantly influenced your approach as a regulator? My long tenure has provided a unique opportunity to deeply understand the evolving challenges and opportunities within the food and drugs sector. Over the years, I’ve been able to develop and refine regulatory policies with a focus on both safety and innovation. One key insight is the importance of proactive engagement with stakeholders—industry, consumers, and other regulatory bodies. This approach has allowed us to anticipate and address potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring that our regulatory framework remains both robust and flexible.
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