Production, Storage, Transfer, Transport, Supply, Distribution and Marketing of Foodstuffs (Prevention of Harmful Activities) Act, 2023 [Act No. 21 of 2023].

This Act provides for prevention of certain harmful activities related to the production, storage, transfer, transportation, supply, distribution and marketing of foodstuff. The Act makes it an offence for a person to manufacture or market food by removing or altering any natural ingredient; mixing artificial ingredients harmful to human health; or carry on any business without license. The Act prohibits and penalises stocking of foodstuff in excess of prescribed quantities. Any person supplying foodstuff to government warehouse which is mixed with old or expired foodstuff, or illegally procured, or altered in quantity or quality, shall be punishable under the Act. The Act further prohibits publishing false information relating to foodstuff or distributing bags of foodstuff from government warehouse without the appropriate seal. The Food Inspector is given powers to enter and inspect any premises and on having reasonable grounds, seal any place and seize food items. The Act provides for establishment of Special Food Courts and allows certain offences committed under the Act to be tried by mobile courts.