By India’s food safety authority, the FSSAI, has categorized packaged drinking water and mineral water as “high-risk food” to ensure stricter safety measures.
This decision follows the government’s move in October to remove the requirement for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for these products. Under the updated guidelines, manufacturers must undergo mandatory inspections and annual audits by FSSAI-recognized third-party food safety agencies to secure licenses or registrations.
What Does This Mean?
The “high-risk food” label does not imply that these products are unsafe for consumption. Instead, it ensures enhanced safety checks and quality standards for consumer protection. Regular inspections and audits will now be mandatory, helping enforce stricter safety protocols for businesses in this category.
Streamlined Regulations
Previously, the packaged drinking water industry faced challenges due to dual certification requirements from both BIS and FSSAI. This resulted in increased costs, administrative hurdles, and delays in obtaining certifications. The recent changes aim to simplify the process while maintaining rigorous safety measures, addressing long-standing industry concerns.
Annual Inspections for High-Risk Foods
Businesses involved in producing high-risk food categories, including packaged water, must now comply with yearly risk-based inspections. These inspections, conducted by designated food safety officers, ensure adherence to strict guidelines. State food commissioners are also tasked with monitoring compliance to ensure consistent implementation.
What Are High-Risk Foods?
High-risk foods, as identified by the FSSAI, require regular inspections and audits to uphold safety standards. Other products in this category include:
- Dairy products and analogues
- Meat and poultry products
- Fish and seafood, including molluscs and crustaceans
- Eggs and egg-based products
- Indian sweets and prepared foods
- Fortified rice kernels and specific nutritional products
Ensuring Consumer Safety
The FSSAI’s revised guidelines reflect a commitment to maintaining consumer safety and product quality. By ensuring regular inspections and removing redundant certifications, these measures aim to balance streamlined operations for businesses with rigorous safety standards.
