In a significant development, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive, invoking Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, for the re-operationalization of draft regulations pertaining to Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Food for Special Dietary Use, Food for Special Medical Purpose, Prebiotic, and Probiotic Food.
Regulatory Evolution: A Recap
The regulatory journey began with the framing of draft FSS (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Food for Special Dietary Use, Food for Special Medical Purpose, and Prebiotic and Probiotic Food) Regulations, 2022. Operationalized on 29.03.2022, these regulations superseded their 2016 counterparts. A subsequent revision on 10.05.2022 allowed for additional food additives and enzymes/proteins in Health Supplements.
Ongoing Adjustments and Re-Operationalization
As the finalization of these draft regulations faces delays, FSSAI has undertaken a series of adjustments. The provisions specified in the directive of 29.03.2022, combined with the updates from 10.05.2022, were re-operationalized on 01.10.2022 and later extended to 01.04.2023. Now, in a proactive move, FSSAI has decided to re-operationalize these provisions for another three months, starting from 01.10.2023.
Authority’s Approval and Legal Basis
This decision is made with the approval of the Competent Authority, exercising powers under Section 18(2)(d) read with Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It ensures a seamless and legally sound continuation of crucial regulations governing health supplements and related categories.
Looking Ahead: Ensuring Regulatory Continuity
FSSAI’s commitment to public health is evident in its strategic approach to ensure the continuity of regulations amidst the finalization process. This re-operationalization period underscores the authority’s dedication to maintaining standards in the realm of health supplements and allied products.
Stay tuned for further updates on the evolving landscape of food safety regulations.
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