The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory to e-commerce food business operators (FBOs) to strengthen their food safety compliance practices. This advisory was issued on December 3, 2024.
This move comes in response to the growing popularity of online food delivery and the need to ensure the safety and quality of food products sold through these platforms.
Key Points of the Advisory
E-commerce FBOs are urged to prioritize training for their delivery staff in food safety and hygiene practices. This includes proper handling, transportation, and storage of food products to prevent contamination.
E-commerce platforms must ensure that the product information displayed online is consistent with the physical product label. Misleading or unsubstantiated claims can lead to regulatory action and erode consumer trust.
E-commerce FBOs should verify that food products delivered to customers have a sufficient remaining shelf life, as mandated by FSSAI regulations.
E-commerce platforms are encouraged to prominently display the FSSAI license or registration numbers of sellers and their hygiene ratings. This transparency will empower consumers to make informed choices.
E-commerce FBOs must ensure that all listed sellers possess valid FSSAI licenses or registrations.
By adhering to these guidelines, e-commerce FBOs can contribute to a safer and more reliable food ecosystem, protecting consumer health and well-being.
