corporate law

FSSAI's 2021 Amendments to Food Fortification Regulations Explained

Introduction

On September 22, 2021, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a notification concerning amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018. These amendments aim to update the compliance standards for micronutrient content in fortified foods.

Amendment Overview

The amendments follow the due process established under section 92 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (34 of 2006). The FSSAI previously published the draft regulations on August 28, 2019, in the Gazette of India to solicit public objections and suggestions. The public was given a thirty-day period to respond, with the Gazette becoming available on September 12, 2019. After reviewing public feedback, the FSSAI is moving forward to implement the amendments.

Key Features of the Amendment Regulations

  1. Title and Commencement

    • The amendment is titled the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Second Amendment Regulations, 2021.
    • These regulations will take effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette. Food business operators are required to comply with the provisions starting from April 1, 2022.

  2. Modification of Compliance Standards

    • Regulation 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018, concerning "Compliance with Standards on Micronutrient Content in Fortified Foods," has been revised:
      • It states: “Any manufacturer who fortifies any food must ensure that the level of added micronutrients on the label of such fortified food falls within the range specified in Schedule-I. A tolerance of minus 10 percent of the declared total value on the label is permissible for compliance and analysis at any point in time. However, the maximum limit of added micronutrients specified in Schedule-I must be adhered to.”

Conclusion

These amendments to the FSSAI regulations reflect a commitment to ensuring public health and safety through the fortification of foods. Compliance by food business operators with the new regulations is essential starting April 1, 2022, to ensure that consumers receive accurately labeled fortified products.