FSSAI Tightens Food Safety Rules for E-Commerce: Directs Separate Delivery of Food and Non-Food Items

New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a comprehensive advisory aimed at enhancing food safety compliance among e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs). One of the key mandates in the advisory is the separate delivery of food and non-food items to prevent cross-contamination and ensure consumer safety.

"E-commerce platforms must adhere to regulatory requirements to strengthen the food safety ecosystem and mitigate risks of foodborne illnesses and fraudulent practices," the FSSAI stated in its directive.

Focus on Training and Hygiene

The advisory emphasizes the importance of training last-mile delivery personnel in food safety and hygiene practices. This includes proper food handling, maintaining personal hygiene, and following sanitation protocols. FSSAI has also mandated that food products being delivered must have sufficient remaining shelf life. Products should have at least 30% of their shelf life left or a minimum of 45 days before expiry at the time of delivery.

Misleading Claims and Labelling Under Scrutiny

E-commerce platforms have been cautioned against making misleading or unsupported claims about food products. FSSAI has directed that all claims must align with the information on the product's physical label, in compliance with the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. Products with unverified claims or non-compliant labelling could face regulatory action, the advisory warned.

Transparency for Consumer Trust

To enhance transparency and consumer trust, FSSAI has urged platforms to display FSSAI License/Registration numbers and Hygiene Ratings of food sellers prominently. It has also reiterated that no FBOs should be listed without valid FSSAI credentials.

The new advisory comes as part of FSSAI's ongoing efforts to improve food safety standards and ensure greater accountability in the e-commerce food sector.