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.
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.
FSSAI Releases List of Recognized Food Testing Labs with NABL Accreditation
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has released an updated list of its recognized laboratories, along with the validity of their National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation as of May 8, 2025, and their contact details. This information is provided to facilitate the analysis of food samples collected under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and its associated rules and regulations.
FSSAI Plans to Restrict Registrations In Key Food Categories
Under the proposal, only State or Central Licenses would be permitted for the manufacturing of these items. The FSSAI plans a special drive to convert existing Registered FBOs manufacturing these products to the License category. A reasonable transition period of six months is proposed to allow FBOs to shift and utilize existing packaging materials. Post-transition, the FoSCoS portal will be modified to remove these products from Registration Certificates.
FSSAI Empowers Consumers to Report Misleading Food Claims via App and Portal
The digital tool simplifies the submission of crucial details necessary for regulatory action. Consumers can now easily upload front-of-pack images clearly highlighting the misleading claim, along with the FSSAI license or registration number of the manufacturer. Furthermore, if the product is being sold online, the e-commerce URL can also be provided.
FSSAI Lifts Suspension on Jubilant Pharma and Reliable Analytical Labs
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced the immediate revocation of the suspension imposed on two testing laboratories: M/s. Jubilant Pharma and Chemical Lab (OPC) Pvt. Ltd., located in Navi Mumbai, and M/s. Reliable Analytical Labs Pvt. Ltd., based in Mumbai.
Union Health Minister Leads “Liver Health Pledge” on World Liver Day
In commemoration of World Liver Day 2025, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare spearheaded a “Liver Health Pledge Ceremony” at a health camp organized by the Ministry at Nirman Bhawan. The event underscored this year’s global theme: “Food is Medicine,” highlighting the vital link between nutrition and liver well-being.
