FSSAI Spearheads Regulatory Reform for Streamlined Food Safety Standards

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) took a major step towards achieving the goal of 'One Nation, One Commodity, One Regulator' by improving the ease of doing business in the food sector. This initiative, discussed and approved in the 43rd meeting of the FSSAI held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Union Health Secretary, Apurva Chandra, marks a significant milestone in India's regulatory landscape. The meeting saw the approval of various amendments across different Food Safety and Standards Regulations.

Notably, these amendments aim to streamline the certification process for food products, eliminating the need for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or AGMARK certification. Once finalized, food businesses will only require FSSAI certification, reducing the bureaucratic hurdles previously faced.

Expanding Standards: Mead, Alcoholic RTDs, and More

Among the approved amendments are the standards for Mead (Honey wine) and Alcoholic Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, reflecting the evolving consumer preferences and industry trends. Additionally, revisions to the standards of milk fat products and the introduction of standards for Haleem, a traditional dish comprising meat, pulses, grains, and spices, further exemplify FSSAI's commitment to encompassing a diverse range of food products under its regulatory purview.

Comprehensive Manuals for Regulatory Compliance

In a pioneering move, the FSSAI approved comprehensive manuals of methods of analysis to ensure regulatory compliance across food products. This initiative underscores FSSAI's proactive approach towards enhancing food safety standards and promoting consumer welfare.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

Recognizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, the amendments across different regulations are slated for draft notification to invite comments from stakeholders before finalization. The inclusive approach adopted by FSSAI encourages inputs from industry associations, consumer organizations, research institutes, farmers' organizations, and various government bodies, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for regulatory development.

The meeting witnessed the participation of key stakeholders, including G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of FSSAI, along with officials from various ministries and departments, such as Health and Family Welfare, Commerce, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Law and Justice, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

The approvals and amendments ratified in the 43rd meeting of FSSAI exemplify the Authority's commitment to enhancing food safety standards, promoting regulatory efficiency, and fostering a conducive business environment in India's food sector.