Food Testing Labs Urged To Exercise Caution In Uploading Reports On FICS Portal

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory to food testing laboratories mapped on the Food Import and Clearance System (FICS) portal. This advisory was issued on August 16, 2024.

The advisory highlights concerns regarding inadvertent mistakes made by laboratories while uploading test reports of import samples, which can lead to delays in the clearance of consignments.

The FSSAI has directed laboratories to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Test reports should be generated and uploaded within five days of sample receipt, as per regulations.
2. Test parameters, food product category, FSSR regulations, limits, results, and units should be carefully verified before submission.
3. Laboratories should ensure that the uploaded test report corresponds to the correct sample.
4. Reports should be uploaded in FORM-2 on FICS portal, including the NABL symbol.
5. Only samples within the laboratory’s NABL scope of accreditation should be accepted.
6. Accredited and validated methods must be used for testing.
7. Test reports should be signed by a duly appointed food analyst.
8. In case of delays in testing, laboratories should inform the Authorized Officer.

These guidelines seek to assist food testing laboratories to contribute to the efficient and accurate clearance of import consignments, ensuring the safety and quality of food products entering the country.