Section 69 of FSSA : Section 69: Power To Compound Offences

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a local ice cream vendor is found selling products that do not meet the prescribed food safety standards. The Commissioner of Food Safety has received a report that the ice cream may contain contaminants exceeding permissible limits. Instead of pursuing a full legal case, the Commissioner decides that, given the vendor's small-scale operation and the nature of the offense, it would be more appropriate to offer the vendor a chance to pay a sum of money to compose the offense.

The Designated Officer approaches the vendor, and after a discussion, they agree on a composition fee of ₹30,000, which is within the maximum limit of ₹1 lakh as per the Food Safety and Standards Act. The vendor pays the amount, and in return, he is not taken to court, and no further legal action is pursued against him. The vendor is also educated on the importance of adhering to food safety standards to prevent future offenses.