FSSAI Rolls Out Strict Guidelines: Shelf Life, Safety, and Truthful Claims for E-Commerce Food
In response to growing concerns from consumers, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated that e-commerce platforms selling food items must ensure a minimum shelf life of either 30 or 45 days at the time of delivery. This decision follows a meeting between FSSAI officials and e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs), aimed at reinforcing compliance and ensuring food safety in the digital marketplace.
During the meeting, FSSAI emphasized the importance of transparency in online food sales. It highlighted that any claims made on e-commerce platforms must align with product labels in accordance with FSSAI’s Labelling and Display Regulations. FSSAI also warned FBOs against misleading consumers through unsupported claims, aiming to enhance consumer trust and prevent misinformation.
Additionally, FSSAI’s CEO outlined several critical requirements for e-commerce FBOs, including mandatory FSSAI licensing, food safety training for delivery staff, and the separate handling of food and non-food items to prevent contamination. The initiative reflects FSSAI’s broader commitment to strengthening food safety across the country, as underscored by high attendance from over 200 participants in the session.
