Question

Which of the following is a voluntary scheme of certification of agricultural products (raw and processed) for safeguarding the health of consumers?

• A. AGMARK
• B. FSSAI
• C. ISI
• D. CAC

Hint:

Remember the key difference: FSSAI is a mandatory license for food safety, while AGMARK is a voluntary certification for agricultural quality and grading.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify a voluntary certification scheme in India for agricultural products aimed at consumer health and safety.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each option:


AGMARK: Stands for Agricultural Mark. It is a certification mark employed on agricultural products in India, assuring that they conform to a set of grade standards. The AGMARK is legally enforced by the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act of 1937. While mandatory for some export products, it is a voluntary scheme for most products sold on the domestic market. It certifies the quality and purity of agricultural goods.

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India): This is India's primary food regulatory body. Obtaining an FSSAI license is mandatory for most food business operators. It is a regulatory license, not a voluntary certification scheme.

ISI (Indian Standards Institution): This mark certifies that industrial products conform to Indian standards. It is managed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It is not primarily for agricultural products.

CAC (Codex Alimentarius Commission): This is an international body that develops food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice. It sets international benchmarks but is not a direct certification scheme for products within India.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on the analysis, AGMARK is the voluntary certification scheme for agricultural products in India.