FSSAI re-operationalizes draft Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) amendment regulations 2022

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced the re-operationalization of the draft Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Amendment Regulations, 2022. These amendments, which address various labelling requirements, were initially operationalized on 17 June 2022 and have undergone multiple re-operationalizations, the latest being on 5 June 2024. The re-operationalization is effective from 1 July 2024 and excludes provisions relating to the tolerance limit on nutrient quantity declarations.

The draft regulations, which include labelling requirements for non-retail containers, minimally processed foods, and warnings related to pan masala, among others, were framed under the powers conferred by Section 92 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. These regulations are currently in the final stages of approval following endorsement by the Food Authority in its 43rd meeting.

The final notification of these amendment regulations is expected to take additional time, prompting FSSAI to re-operationalize the provisions specified in the direction dated 5 June 2024. The re-operationalization, approved by the Competent Authority under Section 18(2)(d) read with Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, ensures the continued enforcement of these critical labelling standards.

The re-operationalized provisions aim to ensure transparency and consistency in the labelling of food products, benefiting both consumers and industry stakeholders.