FSSAI and BFDA Discuss Implementation of Food Safety Agreement
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) held a bilateral meeting with the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) on the sidelines of the Global Food Regulators Summit. The focus of the meeting was on implementing the “Agreement” signed between India and Bhutan in March 2024.
FSSAI and Brazil’s MAPA Sign MoU to Enhance Food Safety Cooperation
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) of Brazil. This collaboration aims to strengthen food safety measures and promote bilateral cooperation in the sector.
FSSAI and Bhutan Food and Drug Authority Sign Agreement for Food Exports
The agreement recognizes the BFDA’s official control over food business operators (FBOs) in Bhutan as equivalent to FSSAI’s requirements. BFDA will issue a health certificate to Bhutanese FBOs as proof of compliance with FSSAI regulations. Indian importers can obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) based on the health certificate issued by BFDA for approved food consignments.
FSSAI Notifies Laboratory for Testing of Prohibited Substances in Sports Supplements
FSSAI has accredited CERANS, located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, to conduct tests for prohibited substances in food for sportsperson under the discipline of ‘Chemical-Nutritional Supplement’. Enforcement authorities can now utilize CERANS for testing ‘Food for Sportsperson’ products to ensure they are free from WADA-prohibited substances.
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.
