The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2017. These draft amendments were published on October 4, 2024.
These changes aim to streamline the process of analyzing imported food samples and ensure consistency in laboratory practices.
Key Amendments
1. Method of Analysis
The FSSAI is proposing to update the methods of analysis used for testing imported food samples. While the Authority’s manuals will remain the primary reference, food laboratories will now have the flexibility to adopt validated methods prescribed by internationally recognized organizations like AOAC, ISO, Pearson’s, Jacob, IUPAC, Food Chemicals CODEX, BIS, Codex Alimentarius, Woodmen, Winton-Winton, or Joslyn. This adoption is permitted only in those circumstances when the any parameter is not available in the manual of the FSSAI.
2. Laboratory Report Submission
It is also proposed that the director of notified laboratories or referral laboratories can be the authorised signatory on analysis reports. This is in addition to the authorised Food Analyst of the laboratory. This will expedite the import clearance process.
Public Consultation
The FSSAI has invited comments and suggestions on these proposed amendments. Stakeholders can submit their feedback by December 3, 2024.
Impact of the Amendments
These changes are expected to improve the efficiency of food import procedures and ensure that imported food products are analyzed using accurate and internationally recognized methods.
