FSSAI publishes Updated List of Recognised Food Testing Laboratories

The present list includes the validity of the laboratories’ NABL accreditation, scope of testing as on 26th October, 2023 for the purpose of carrying out the analysis of food samples taken under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Rules and Regulations made thereunder.

Draft Non-Basmati Aromatic Rice Grading and Marking Rules, 2023

These proposed rules are poised to contribute to the assurance of the quality, safety, and labeling standards of Non-Basmati aromatic rice intended for human consumption. It is expected that they will have a positive impact on consumer confidence and the overall rice industry in India, fostering improved quality and trade practices in the sector.

Inclusion of QR Codes on Food Products for Accessibility by Visually Impaired Individuals

FSSAI suggests that one effective means of facilitating easy access to nutritional information for visually impaired individuals is to incorporate Quick Response (QR) codes on product labels. These QR codes should include product details such as ingredients, nutritional information, allergens and their warning, manufacturing date, best before/ expiry/ use by date and contact information for customer inquiries.

Products with S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) are not considered as Food Products

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has stated that the ingredient/ product with S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) is not considered as food. It has directed that all products containing this compound as an ingredient alone or in combination with other ingredients should not be available in the market under an FSSAI licence.

Advisory on Import of Food Consignment for 100 Export/Re-export purpose

Food imported by manufacturers or processors for their captive use or for production of value-added products for 100% export/ re-export can avail the benefit of an exemption from import clearance. To do so, a declaration in form 8 must be made at the time of filing Bill of Entry (BoE) in ICEGATE.

FSSAI publishes list of Notified Laboratories for Testing of Fortificants

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published a list of notified laboratories for testing of fortificants in fortified rice products such as Fortified Rice (FR), Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) and premix for Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK). These laboratories will be testing fortificants comprising of iron, vitamin B12 and vitamin B9.

No Protein Binders Allowed in Milk and Milk Products

While protein binders have gained prominence as essential ingredients in the production of various food products, especially semi-solid or solid foods, FSSAI’s stance underscores the potential negative impact on the digestibility of bound proteins.