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.
FSSAI Withdraws Prior Advisory On Misleading A1-A2 Milk Product Claims
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an order withdrawing its warning against misleading claims made by e-commerce food businesses selling milk and milk products labeled as “A1” and “A2.” FSSAI has notified its decision to withdraw the advisory, pending further consultation and engagement with stakeholders.
Clarification On Misleading A1-A2 Milk Claims
FSSAI has instructed FBOs to immediately remove all A1 and A2 claims from their milk and milk products such as ghee, butter, curd, etc. and websites. E-commerce platforms are also required to ensure that their sellers adhere to this directive.
Food Testing Labs Urged To Exercise Caution In Uploading Reports On FICS Portal
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 specified guidelines.
FSSAI Launches Project to Address Microplastic Contamination in Indian Food
The initiative aims to develop standardized methods for detecting microplastics in various food products and assess their prevalence in India. The project, launched on August 18, 2024, will involve collaboration with leading research institutions across the country. The findings will help FSSAI formulate effective regulations and safety standards to protect public health
Deadline Extended For Selling Reconstituted Fruit Juices as 100% Fruit Juice
The earlier deadline of September 1, 2024, has been pushed to December 31, 2024, in response to requests from industry stakeholders. Additionally, products manufactured before the new deadline can be sold until their shelf life expires.
Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024
The Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024 outline stringent quality standards for various millets, including sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet, and others. The rules specify detailed quality standards for different types of millets, covering aspects such as purity, moisture content, and foreign matter.
