FSSAI Clarifies Categorization of Watermelon Seeds Under Food Safety Standards

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently received representations regarding the correct categorization of watermelon seeds under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations (FSSR). It published an order dated March 15, 2024 on this subject.

In response to these representations, FSSAI clarified that currently, there is no specific standard for watermelon seeds or any other edible dried fruits/vegetable seeds under the FSSR. However, FSSAI has examined the matter and decided to take interim measures to safeguard the interests of consumers.

As an interim measure, FSSAI has decided to add the following product names in the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) for the purpose of licensing of edible dried fruits/vegetable seeds:

1. Edible Dried Seeds obtained from Fruits – categorized under Food Product Category 4.1.2.2 [Dried fruits, nuts, and seeds]
2. Edible Dried Seeds obtained from vegetables – categorized under Food Product Category 4.2.2.2 [Dried vegetables (including mushrooms, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, seaweeds, nuts, and seeds)]

Food businesses can apply under the General Manufacturing Kind of Business for these categories until specific standards are notified by the Food Authority.

This step by FSSAI aims to ensure clarity and regulation in the categorization of watermelon seeds and other edible dried fruits/vegetable seeds, providing assurance to consumers regarding food safety standards.