The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a new provision mandating the quarterly submission of data related to rejected and expired food products by FSSAI-licensed food manufacturers, repackers, labelers, and importers. This initiative ensures greater accountability in food safety practices and prevents unsafe products from entering the market.
Responsibilities of Food Business Operators (FBOs) Under FSS Act, 2006
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, particularly Section 26 and Section 27, outlines the responsibilities and liabilities of Food Business Operators (FBOs) in ensuring food safety. Additionally, the FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Business) Regulations, 2011, highlight the following:
- Sub-part 5.2.3 of Part II (Schedule IV) mandates segregation for the storage of raw, processed, rejected, recalled, or returned materials. These items must be distinguishably marked and secured.
- Sub-part 5.2.5 of Part II (Schedule IV) emphasizes the use of stock rotation systems such as FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expire, First Out) for raw materials, ingredients, and processed food products.
Purpose of the New Data Submission Provision
The provision aims to ensure that rejected or expired food products are not misused by being rebranded and sold for human consumption under the guise of cattle feed. To address this issue, FSSAI has introduced a system within the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) for the quarterly submission of detailed data, which includes:
- Quantity of Rejected Food Items:
FBOs must report the quantity of food products that failed to meet quality standards during internal testing or inspections and were subsequently rejected for sale in the market. - Quantity of Expired Products:
FBOs are required to provide details of food products that have expired or been returned from the supply chain due to quality concerns or expiration. - Actions Taken with Rejected/Expired Items:
A detailed record must be maintained regarding how rejected or expired products were handled. This includes:- Quantities destroyed
- Quantities auctioned
- Quantities redirected for alternative uses
Specific details such as the buyer of auctioned products or the waste disposal agency must also be documented.
Implementation Timeline and FBO Responsibilities
Although the system for submitting this data will be activated in the FoSCoS portal in due course, FBOs are advised to start consolidating the required information immediately. This proactive step will ensure timely submission when the feature becomes operational.
Key steps FBOs should take:
- Compile and maintain accurate records of rejected and expired products.
- Document the actions taken for each category of products.
- Prepare detailed reports to facilitate smooth data submission once the system is live.
The Bottom Line
The new quarterly reporting requirement introduced by FSSAI reflects its commitment to ensuring food safety and preventing the misuse of rejected or expired food products. By complying with these provisions, FBOs can enhance transparency, safeguard public health, and maintain regulatory compliance. All licensed food manufacturers, repackers, relabellers, and importers are urged to implement the necessary arrangements for accurate record-keeping and timely data submission.
This initiative is a critical step toward creating a robust food safety framework in India, protecting both consumers and the integrity of the food supply chain.
Leave a Reply