Extension of FSSAI-NABL Integrated Assessment Timeline and Accreditation Requirements
FSSAI has emphasized that FSSAI-notified laboratories who do not yet possess accreditation under the FSSAI-NABL Integrated Assessment Scheme must apply for NABL accreditation within three months. Failing to comply with this notice will lead to administrative actions against defaulting laboratories.
Updated List of Notified and Referral Laboratories for Testing Fortified Rice Products
Only laboratories on the FSSAI’s approved list can be used for testing fortified rice products. Labs must maintain valid accreditation status. Businesses can verify accreditation on the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) website before sending samples for testing.
Union Health Ministry Emphasizes Fire Safety in Hospitals
States and UTs must conduct routine assessments to identify potential fire hazards. They shall conduct regular fire drills to familiarize staff and patients with evacuation routes and safety protocols. Hospitals shall also implement fire safety plans.
FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading “100% Fruit Juice” Claims
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to immediately remove “100% fruit juice” claims from labels and advertisements of reconstituted fruit juices. Products must mention “reconstituted” for reconstituted juices and “Sweetened juice” if added nutritive sweeteners exceed 15 gm/kg.
TNPCB Releases Handbook to Guide Businesses on Plastic Packaging Waste Management
The handbook simplifies the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines for plastic packaging waste, explaining the roles and responsibilities of each party involved. Businesses can utilize this guide to understand their obligations under the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules and ensure seamless compliance.
Mizoram Ramps Up Efforts to Contain African Swine Fever Outbreak
A complete ban has been imposed on importing live pigs, fresh pork, and all pork products (including frozen) from other states and countries. The Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department will enforce mandatory disinfection of pig farms and implement strict hygiene protocols. Additionally, suspected pigs will be isolated.
BIS Withdraws 47 Indian Standards
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has withdrawn several standards effective from May 10, 2024. This notification was dated May 28, 2024. These standards include Dielectric Capacitors, Resistors, Semiconductor Devices, Electromechanical Switches for Use in Electronic Equipment, etc.
NCISM Rectifies Errors In Minimum Standards For Undergraduate Ayurveda Colleges Regulations
The role of the yoga demonstrator within the Swasthavritta department is clarified. The document now uses consistent terminology like “Minimum Essential Standards” and “rupees two lakhs.” Errors and omissions in the lists of equipment required for various departments have been addressed. New entries include tonsillectomy sets, chalazion excision sets, epilation forceps, and various ENT and eye instruments.
Deadline Extended for Comments On Staff Paper On Power Exchange Bidding Oversight
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has extended the deadline for stakeholders to submit comments and suggestions on the Staff Paper titled “Regulatory Oversight on Bidding Behaviour in Power Exchanges.” The extension was granted in response to requests from stakeholders who sought more time to provide their feedback.
CDSCO Seeks Feedback On Revised Vaccine Pharmacovigilance Guidelines
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is seeking industry input on a revised version (version 2.0) of its “Guidance for Industry on Pharmacovigilance requirements for Human Vaccines”. The deadline for submission of input is June 13, 2024.
