FSSAI Proposes Fixed Renewal Cycles and Longer Validity Periods for Food Licenses
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is exploring changes to the renewal process and validity periods for food licenses and registrations, aiming for uniformity and reduced burden on Food Business Operators (FBOs). The authority has released a Consultation Paper seeking stakeholder comments on proposals to introduce fixed renewal cycles and longer validity options, potentially up to 10 years for certain businesses. This notice was issued on May 20, 2025.
India Launches Digital Revolution in Public Distribution System with Depot Darpan, Anna Mitra, and Anna Sahayata
The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has unveiled a suite of digital initiatives aimed at transforming India’s Public Distribution System (PDS), marking a leap towards enhanced transparency, improved infrastructure, and greater empowerment for beneficiaries and frontline workers.
Implementation of Agreement Between India and Bhutan to Streamline Food Imports
For imported food consignments from approved Bhutanese manufacturers, if accompanied by the prescribed Health Certificate duly issued by the BFDA Competent Authority, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be granted based on the compliant Health Certificate.
FSSAI Mandates Closure Reports for Expired Food Licenses/Registrations
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive mandating all Food Business Operators (FBOs) whose FSSAI License or Registration expired during the financial year 2024-25 to submit a Closure Report. This order was issued on May 16, 2025.
FSSAI Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening and Synthetic Coatings
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a strong directive to all States and Union Territories, urging them to significantly intensify inspections and conduct special enforcement drives to combat the illegal use of non-permitted fruit ripening agents, as well as the application of synthetic colors and non-permitted wax coatings on fruits. This press release was issued on May 20, 2025.
Jute Commissioner Sets Maximum Ex-Factory Price for 580-gram Jute Bags for May 2025
The Office of the Jute Commissioner, under the Ministry of Textiles, has issued a notification on May 9, 2025, officially setting the maximum ex-factory price for two specific types of 580-gram jute bags (‘Type-A’ and ‘Type-B’) for the month of May 2025. The notification fixes the maximum ex-factory price for both ‘Type-A’ and ‘Type-B’ B-Twill Sacking bags (weighing 580 grams and without linkage) at ₹ 111,392.00 per Metric Ton (MT). This translates to a price of ₹ 6,460.73 per 100 bags.
FSSAI Intensifies Monitoring of Artificial Fruit Ripening Amid Mango Season
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive to Commissioners of Food Safety across all States and Union Territories, as well as its own Regional Directors, to heighten surveillance on the sale of fresh fruits, particularly mangoes, to curb the use of unauthorized and prohibited artificial ripening agents.
Delhi Govt Warns HCR Licensees Over Missing PCC
Delhi Govt orders HCR licensees to submit PCC within 5 days or face action under the Excise Act. Non-compliance flagged despite prior reminder.
No Need to Panic: Ample Essential Food Stocks Available Nationwide
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has firmly stated that there is no shortage of essential commodities across the country, urging citizens not to panic or engage in unnecessary bulk buying. He specifically cautioned the public against believing “propaganda messages” circulating about food stocks.
FSSAI Recognizes Nepal’s National Food & Feed Reference Laboratory for Food Sample Analysis
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially recognized the National Food & Feed Reference Laboratory (NFFRL) located in Kathmandu, Nepal, for the analysis of food samples intended for import into India. This significant development follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established between the FSSAI and the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) of Nepal, aimed at fostering cooperation in the critical area of food safety.
