FSSAI Revises NABL Accredited Laboratories for Analysis of Food Samples
FSSAI has modified the list of laboratories in the Northern, Western, Southern and Eastern Region of the country. These laboratories are notified for the purposes of carrying out analysis of food samples taken in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI Expands Instant Food License and Registration Nationwide
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has expanded its Instant (Tatkal) program for obtaining food licenses and registrations across India. As of August 31, 2024, the Tatkal program has been rolled out nationwide, excluding Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya. The tatkal facility uses digital verification for renewal of licences or registration through specified identity documents.
FSSAI Reduces Testing Fees for Pan-India Surveillance Programs
FSSAI has now reduced the testing fees for all food categories by 50% effective immediately. This reduction is applicable to surveillance programs conducted by FSSAI headquarters. GST will be applicable on these reduced rates as per the orders of the Central Government.
Food Safety Authorities Step Up Vigilance During Festive Season
The food safety authorities across the country are intensifying their efforts to prevent adulteration of sweets, savouries, milk, and milk products like ghee, khoya, and paneer. The authorities have intimated the general public of their intension to hold special surveillance drives during this festive season.
Operationalization of Draft Food Safety and Standards Nutraceuticals Regulations, 2022
The FSSAI has re-operationalised the FSS Nutraceuticals Regulations, 2022 and the direction permitting the use of certain additives and enzymes in health supplements from July 1, 2024. It also permits the use of additives and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Table as per Codex in all categories and across all formats.
Re-operationalization of Draft Labelling and Display Amendment Regulations 2022
FSSAI has re-operationalized the provisions of these draft amendment regulations with effect from January 01, 2024. The draft amendment regulations contemplate labelling requirements of the non-retail container, minimally processed food, warning statement related to pan masala, etc. The present re-operationalization is effective from July 1, 2024.
Extension of Transition Period for Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for Milk and Milk Products
The latest extension pushes back the deadline to October 31, 2024. Imported consignments of milk and milk products with bills of lading or veterinary health certificates issued after this date will only be eligible for post-import clearance if they comply with the requirements of the Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate.
Revised List of FSSAI Notified Laboratories For Testing Of Fortificants in Fortified Rice Products
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has updated its list of approved laboratories capable of testing fortificants in Fortified Rice (FR), Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK), and Vitamin-Mineral Premix for FRK. This order supersedes the previous order dated July 8, 2024.
Natamycin Recognized As Food Additives For Fermented Milks And Dairy Based Desserts
The proposed amendments would allow the use of natamycin (INS 235) in chakka and shrikhand, two traditional Indian dairy desserts. Natamycin is a natural antifungal agent that can help prevent spoilage and maintain the quality of these products.
FSSAI Calls for Inter-Ministerial Committee to Address Pesticide Concerns
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the proposal to establish inter-ministerial committees at the state level to address concerns related to pesticide use. These committees will work towards reducing pesticide application, implementing effective control measures, and monitoring pesticide usage at the farmer level. The aim is to ensure that agricultural practices are safe and sustainable, protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in food.
