The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has classified packaged drinking water and mineral water under the high-risk food category. This move aims to strengthen consumer safety by enforcing stricter regulatory oversight, including mandatory annual inspections and third-party audits for manufacturers.
Why the Classification?
The reclassification stems from concerns over non-compliance with safety standards, including the absence of required FSSAI licenses or Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification. Several cases of substandard or mislabeled products have highlighted the need for stringent measures to ensure the safety of packaged water, which is a widely consumed essential item
Key Mandates for Compliance:
- Annual Inspections: State food safety departments will carry out regular inspections to ensure manufacturers adhere to licensing and safety standards.
- Third-Party Audits: As per the Food Safety and Standards (Food Safety Auditing) Regulations, manufacturers must undergo mandatory third-party audits to verify their adherence to hygienic practices and safety norms.
- Strict Documentation: Manufacturers are required to have both an FSSAI license and BIS certification, ensuring compliance with both national safety standards and food safety laws
Ensuring Safer Hydration:
By enforcing these measures, the FSSAI aims to promote accountability and transparency within the industry. Consumers can expect higher quality products as manufacturers will now face stricter penalties for violations. Additionally, the focus on third-party audits ensures an unbiased assessment of compliance levels
These steps underline FSSAI’s commitment to public health by reducing the risks associated with packaged drinking water and ensuring that safe, high-quality hydration is accessible across India.
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