Multi-Lingual FoSCoS Portal to Boost Food Safety Compliance
FSSAI envisions that the multi-lingual FoSCoS portal will create a safer and more compliant food ecosystem nationwide. By breaking language barriers, FSSAI makes information and compliance procedures easily accessible. This ultimately contributes to the overarching goal of ensuring food safety and quality for all consumers.
Withdrawal of Declaration of ‘Best Before’ Dates for Non-Packaged Sweets
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued directions withdrawing the mandatory declaration of ‘best before’ dates on non-packaged sweets / loose sweet containers / trays. However, FBOs can still declare best before date on non packaged sweets / loose sweet containers / trays on voluntary / optional basis.
Registrations Discontinued for Manufacturers of Fortified Rice Kernel
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an order to strengthen the quality control mechanism for Fortified Rice (FR), Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) and Pre-mix for FRK. This order was based upon a review of the existing regulatory mechanism of manufacturing FR and FRK. It was issued on 8th November, 2023.
FBOs Can Choose Periodicity of FSSAI Instant Renewal Licence
Effective from November 8, 2023, Food Business Operators (FBOs) applying for new licenses/registrations or seeking renewal will now have the flexibility to choose the validity period for their licenses. The revised guidelines empower FBOs to select a validity period ranging from 1 to 5 years in their applications.
FSSAI Approves Methods of Testing for Fortified Rice Kernel Analysis
These methods have undergone rigorous scrutiny by the scientific community and are deemed to provide accurate results, setting a new standard for assessing the nutritional content of fortified rice. The directive from the Scientific Panel mandates all food testing laboratories to adopt these approved methods with immediate effect.
Central Government Sets Date for Jan Vishwas Act Amendment on Food Safety
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 has watered down the punitive actions under the Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006. It has substituted punishments with penalties. In some cases, it has reduced the gravity of penalties under the Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006.
FSSAI extends Timelines for FBOs in Manipur
This extension in deadlines on humanitarian considerations seeks to bring about stability and consistency in the food processes for FBOs in Manipur, while sympathizing with their plight. FSSAI, upon due consideration, extended the deadlines for FBOs of the state for submission of returns and licence/ registration renewals to 15th November, 2023.
FSSAI revises list of Notified Laboratories for Testing Fortified Rice and Rice Products
FSSAI had originally published a list of notified laboratories for testing of these fortificants in the above stated products on 13th October, 2023. Subsequently, a revised list of notified laboratories was published on 19th October, 2023. Now, by the present notification, FSSAI has once more updated its list of notified laboratories for testing of fortificants in fortified rice products.
List of Referral Laboratories for Testing Fortified Rice and Rice Products
Only those samples that fail in the primary food testing laboratories notified for testing FR, FRK and Vitamin- Mineral Premix for FRK shall be sent to the presently notified referral food laboratories. All concerned stakeholders are directed to the latest accreditation validity of these laboratories from the NABL website prior to sending the samples to these laboratories.
FSSAI to monitor activities of Temporary Food Businesses during Festivities
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory urging all Food Business Operators (FBOs) carrying out business activities during festivities to obtain FSSAI registration/ licence and comply with hygiene standards. For ease of application processes, the FSSAI has a mobile application called ‘Food Safety Connect’. A user manual to the app has also been provided by FSSAI.
