Draft Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Amendment Regulations, 2024
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, specifically focusing on pesticide residues. The term “insecticide” has been aligned with the definition provided in the Insecticides Act, 1968. The use of pesticides or insecticides directly on food articles is generally restricted. However, fumigants registered under the Insecticides Act are exempt from this restriction.
Tea Board India Issues Plant Protection Code to Safeguard Tea Plantations
Emphasizing the safe usage of crop protection products, the Plant Protection Code encourages tea growers to critically evaluate their Plant Protection Formulation (PPF) usage and gradually reduce reliance on chemicals. By adhering to these guidelines, the tea industry aims to minimize pesticide residues and promote sustainable tea production practices across India.
Government Issues Insecticides (Seventh Amendment) Rules, 2023
This amendment aims to enhance the qualifications required for the roles of pest control operators within the ambit of insecticides regulation, ensuring a more informed and skilled workforce in the sector. The additional proviso mandates that individuals must have passed Class 12th or Higher Secondary Certificate Examination from a recognized Board or University.
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.
Proposed Digitization of Processes under Insecticides Rules for Enhanced Regulation
The proposed eighth amendment addresses the licensing process for pest control operations involving Glyphosate and its derivatives. The proposed ninth amendment covers various aspects of licensing, record-keeping, and reporting. Some key highlights include the introduction of digital forms for license applications, maintenance of records, and reporting procedures.
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.
Updates in Conditions to Obtain Pest Control Operations Licences
The Central Government has updated its provisions on the grant of licence for pest control operations in the country. It has also stipulated for specialized training relating to the use of glyphosate and its derivates in pest control operations.
CPCB organizes 35th Analytical Quality Comparison Exercise for Environmental Laboratories
This exercise specifically focuses on testing pesticide compounds in water matrices. In line with this initiative, the CPCB has requested all laboratories registered for the program to ensure their readiness to undertake the analysis.
