Question

The 'Fruit Products Order' (FPO) mark was mandatory for fruit products in India until 2006. What was the specific symbol used for FPO?

• A. A red circle in a square
• B. A sun with a fruit basket
• C. The letters 'FPO' inside a rectangle
• D. An Agmark replica

Hint:

Historical certification marks like FPO (for fruit products) and MFPO (for meat products) are now replaced by the unified FSSAI logo, but their historical details remain common in food technology exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks about the graphical design of the Fruit Products Order (FPO) certification mark that was mandatory in India until 2006.

Step 2: Key Concepts and Approach:
The Fruit Products Order, 1955, was promulgated to ensure the quality and hygienic production of processed fruit and vegetable products.
With the introduction of the FSS Act in 2006, this order was merged into the unified FSSAI standards.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• The FPO Mark: The FPO certification mark was a mandatory standard mark applied to processed fruit products sold in India, including jams, jellies, squashes, and pickles.

• Design of the Symbol: The mark was characterized by the capital letters "FPO" positioned inside a prominent rectangle, often accompanied by the manufacturer's license number.

• Other Symbols:
* A red circle in a square is the modern symbol used to designate non-vegetarian food products in India.
* Agmark is a certification mark used for agricultural products (like ghee, honey, and spices) under the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct symbol was the letters 'FPO' inside a rectangle, corresponding to Option (C).