FSSAI Notifies NABL Accredited Laboratories for Analysis of Food Samples
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has modified its list of laboratories accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). 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.
Warning Statement to be Included on ‘Pan Masala’
As per directions dated 22nd May, 2023, Pan Masala must have a declaration that “The warning statement must cover 50% of front-of-pack of the label”. The enforcement of this requirement is deferred for a further period of 6 months from 1st November, 2023.
Reactivation of Auto-Rejected FSSAI Licensing/ Registration Applications
This facility will be available to those FBOs (Food Business Operators) whose applications were auto-rejected because they did not respond to the queries of the authorities within the stipulated time. This procedure will streamline the process of reactivation of auto-rejected applications. It will reduce waiting time for the approval of authorities in handling request for reactivation of auto-rejected applications.
India Elected to Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission
As a member of the Executive Committee, India will not only have a significant say in international standard-setting for various food product categories but will also actively participate in decision-making processes. India has also been recognised by FAO for being the host country secretariat for Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs and its contribution to codex.
FSSAI Bans 20 Pesticides & Issues Testing Directives
This move by FSSAI reinforces the commitment to protecting public health by actively monitoring and regulating the use of pesticides and contaminants in the food supply chain. These regulatory measures serve to bolster confidence in the nation’s food safety ecosystem.
FSSAI Releases Updated List of Accredited Laboratories for Testing Fortificants in Fortified Rice Products
This announcement reinforces FSSAI’s commitment to maintaining stringent quality control measures in the fortification of rice products. The revised list of approved laboratories marks another step in the direction of enhancing transparency and accountability in the fortified food sector.
FSSAI Surveillance Drives Against Adulteration of Cinnamon with Cassia
Commissioners of Food Safety of States/UTs and the Central Licensing Authorities of FSSAI are urged to conduct a comprehensive market surveillance drive. The objective is to scrutinize the prevalence of malpractices, both in whole and powdered forms of these spices, in their respective jurisdictions.
Label Rectification for Imported Foods Allowed in Customs Bonded Warehouses
The FSSAI has taken this decision to facilitate a smoother import process for food items while maintaining stringent quality standards. The office order emphasizes that these modifications are introduced to strike a balance between facilitating trade and ensuring the safety of imported food into India.
Steviol Glycoside Not Permitted in Cocoa and Chocolate Products
As per this communication, it is clarified that ‘steviol glycoside (INS 960)’ is currently not permitted for use in ‘Cocoa and Chocolate products’ and ‘Imitation chocolate, chocolate substitute products’ under the existing Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Regulations, 2011. FBOs are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance with this regulation, refraining from manufacturing and/or selling such products in the market and on e-commerce platforms.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables To Be Monitored for Pesticides
FSSAI has once more urged the authorities to keep a strict vigil on Food Business Operators engaged in manufacturing, repacking, and selling fresh, surface-treated, and minimally processed fruits & vegetables. Authorities shall undertake surveillance/ enforcement measures at regular intervals in a planned manner.
