World · India Bureau
Food Safety Regulator Tightens Rules on Perishables for Festival Season
India's food safety authority has issued stringent compliance guidelines for businesses handling perishable food items during the festive period. The directive aims to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure consumer safety across the supply chain.
LSN India ·
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated strict adherence to safety protocols for all food business operators involved in the manufacture, packing, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of perishable food commodities during the upcoming festive season.
The regulatory order underscores the critical importance of maintaining proper temperature control and hygiene standards throughout the supply chain to prevent spoilage and contamination. Perishable items including dairy products, meat, seafood, fruits and vegetables require enhanced monitoring during high-volume trading periods when festive demand peaks.
Food business operators have been instructed to implement robust cold chain management systems, conduct regular quality checks, and maintain proper documentation of storage conditions and shelf life compliance. The guidelines also emphasize the need for swift removal of expired or compromised stock from retail outlets.
The timing of the directive reflects seasonal concerns, as festive celebrations typically coincide with increased food consumption and heightened risks of food poisoning incidents. Authorities have warned that non-compliance may attract penalties under food safety regulations.
Consumers are advised to purchase perishable items from certified vendors, check expiration dates, and store products at recommended temperatures to reduce health risks during the festive period.
Photo: Health Minister J.P. Nadda launches FSSAI's new website at a food safety roundtable in New Delhi, January 2018. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, via Wikimedia Commons (GODL-India).