The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently released an important update for Food Business Operators (FBOs) regarding the marketing and sale of reconstituted fruit juices as “100% fruit juices.” This comes in light of the advisory dated June 3rd, 2024, which had earlier mandated the exhaustion of all pre-printed packaging materials by August 31st, 2024. However, following various representations from stakeholders, FSSAI has decided to extend the deadline, providing FBOs with additional time to comply with the updated regulations.
Revised Deadline for Packaging Materials
In response to feedback from industry stakeholders, the deadline for utilizing existing pre-printed packaging materials has been extended to December 31st, 2024. This extension aims to give FBOs adequate time to adjust to the new labeling requirements without disrupting their operations or causing financial strain due to the premature disposal of packaging materials.
Implications for Product Sales
Under the revised guidelines, FBOs can continue selling products manufactured before December 31st, 2024, with the existing packaging. These products can remain in the market across all distribution channels until the end of their respective shelf lives. This provision ensures there is no wastage of resources and that businesses have sufficient time to transition to the updated packaging standards.
Compliance and Enforcement
All concerned FBOs are hereby directed to comply with this revised deadline. Non-compliance with the updated regulations could result in penalties or other enforcement actions by the relevant authorities. FBOs are advised to take immediate steps to ensure that all new packaging produced after December 31st, 2024, adheres to the current labeling requirements as stipulated by FSSAI.
The Bottom Line
The deadline extension by FSSAI offers much-needed relief to FBOs, allowing them more time to transition to new labeling requirements for reconstituted fruit juices marketed as “100% fruit juices.” This decision underscores FSSAI’s commitment to balancing regulatory compliance with the practical challenges faced by the food industry. FBOs should take this extension as an opportunity to fully align their packaging practices with the updated guidelines to avoid any disruptions in their operations.
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