The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently issued a significant notification on October 15, 2024, which mandates the use of specific test report formats for all food testing laboratories. This update aligns with the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011, and the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulation, 2017, with a focus on incorporating the NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) symbol.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
- Mandatory Report Formats: Laboratories are now required to issue test reports using designated formats such as “Form VII A – Report of the Food Analyst” and “Form XI – Certificate of Analysis by the Referral Food Laboratory.” These formats are introduced as part of the Food Safety and Standards (First Amendment) Rules, 2022, ensuring that all surveillance, enforcement, and appeal samples are reported in a standardized manner.
- Specific Requirements for Imported Food: For imported food products, notified or referral laboratories must submit laboratory analysis reports using FORM – 2, as specified in the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulation, 2017. This ensures a uniform approach for testing and reporting on imported foods.
- Use of NABL Symbol: Laboratories accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 are required to include the NABL symbol in their test reports for tests that fall under their accredited scope. This requirement is guided by the NABL 133 policy, which regulates the use of the NABL symbol and claims of accreditation.
Why This Matters:
This move by FSSAI underscores its commitment to ensuring that food testing in India meets high standards of quality, reliability, and transparency. By standardizing the test report formats and requiring NABL accreditation symbols, the FSSAI aims to enhance the credibility of food testing reports and foster greater trust in the food safety system. Additionally, these changes are expected to streamline regulatory processes and improve the enforcement of food safety laws across the country.
The notification marks a critical step in reinforcing food safety measures in India, particularly in the context of imported food, where strict adherence to testing standards is crucial. By adhering to these mandatory formats, laboratories will not only comply with FSSAI regulations but also contribute to a safer, more reliable food supply chain for consumers.
These updates reflect a growing emphasis on food safety standards, as India continues to harmonize its regulations with international practices and ensure that food products meet stringent safety criteria.
🚨 Be Aware, We never charge any consultancy fee for jobs.
📲 Foodtech Network WhatsApp Jobs Group
🔗 WhatsApp Groups
⚙️ Food Entrepreneurs & Startups (Our services)
🔗 https://bit.ly/3JDyPIN
🏅 Food safety training and certification.
🔗 Foodtech Network Academy
Comments