Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer 2024 Salary – Pay Scale, Basic

KPSC invites applications for the position of Food Safety Officer. As you may be aware, the role of the Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer (FSO) is essential for maintaining food safety standards. These professionals are essential to ensuring that food produced and served across the state meets stringent hygiene and safety regulations. Beyond their responsibilities, understanding the salary structure of Kerala PSC Food Safety Officers provides insight into the financial aspects of this essential public service role. What exactly does a Food Safety Officer earn, and how does this salary reflect their responsibilities?

Who is a Food Safety Officer?

A Food Safety Officer (FSO) is responsible for ensuring food safety and hygiene standards in food establishments. Their duties include inspecting food premises, monitoring food handling practices, enforcing regulations, investigating complaints or outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, and educating food handlers and the public about safe food practices. They work with government agencies and health departments to prevent foodborne diseases and ensure compliance with food safety laws. Food safety officers may work for independent authorities or food companies, where they inspect facilities, test food samples, and ensure compliance with regulations. They also identify and resolve operational issues to improve food processing and may supervise staff.

Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer Recruitment 2024 Highlights

Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer Salary 2024 

The salary range for a Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer (FSO) is set between Rs 39,300 to Rs 83,000 per month. This scale reflects the government’s recognition of the critical role FSOs play in maintaining food safety standards across Kerala. Entry-level officers typically start at the lower end of this spectrum, with salaries gradually increasing based on experience, qualifications, and promotions within the Kerala Public Service Commission framework.

Salary Insights for Kerala PSC Food Safety Officers

The salary structure for Kerala PSC Food Safety Officers is governed by the Kerala Public Service Commission, with remuneration typically based on government pay scales and allowances. As of recent data:

• Entry-Level Salary: Entry-level Kerala PSC Food Safety Officers can expect a starting salary of ₹39,000 per month. This initial salary is commensurate with educational qualifications and experience.
• Mid-Level Salary: With experience and promotions, the salary for mid-level Food Safety Officers can range from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000 per month, depending on tenure and additional responsibilities.
• Senior-Level Salary: Senior Food Safety Officers, who may hold supervisory roles or specialize in specific areas of food safety, can earn ₹83,000 per month.

Factors Influencing Salary

Several factors influence the salary of Kerala PSC Food Safety Officers:

1. Experience: Years of service and expertise in food safety regulations can significantly impact salary progression.
2. Education and Qualifications: Higher educational qualifications in food science, public health, or related fields, along with certifications in food safety, can enhance earning potential.
3. Additional Benefits: Government positions often include benefits such as healthcare, pension schemes, and leave entitlements, enhancing the overall compensation package.

Kerala PSC FSO Salary 2024: Perks and Allowances

1. Dearness Allowances
2. House Rent Allowances
3. Special Pay
4. Deputation Special Pay
5. Compensatory Allowances
6. Allowance for Uniforms
7. Washing Allowances
8. Travelling Allowances
9. Smartness Allowances
10. Medical Allowances

Responsibilities of a Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer

The primary responsibility of a Kerala PSC Food Safety Officer revolves around enforcing food safety laws and regulations to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the highest standards of hygiene in food production, storage, and distribution. Key duties include:

1. Inspection and Monitoring: Conducting regular inspections of food establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and food processing units, to ensure compliance with safety standards.
2. Compliance Enforcement: Enforcing Kerala’s Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA) and other relevant regulations through inspections, audits, and corrective actions.
3. Public Awareness and Education: Educating food handlers and the public about safe food handling practices, hygiene standards, and the importance of food safety.
4. Investigation and Reporting: Investigating complaints related to food safety, conducting thorough investigations into foodborne illness outbreaks, and preparing detailed reports for regulatory purposes.