TheFSSAI Notified Laboratories Compliance Order 2026 clarifies the responsibilities of all food testing laboratories notified under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. On 12 February 2026, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issued this order through its Quality Assurance Division. The authority observed gaps in regulatory compliance. Therefore, it directed all notified laboratories to take immediate corrective action.
The FSSAI Notified Laboratories Compliance Order 2026 focuses on reporting transparency, method validation, and documentation control. In particular, it reinforces the obligations under Regulation 9 of the Food Safety and Standards Recognition and Notification of Laboratories Regulations, 2018.
Regulatory Background
Under Section 43(1) and 43(2) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI recognizes and notifies laboratories for food analysis. However, recognition comes with defined responsibilities.
Regulation 9 clearly lists the obligations of notified laboratories. Despite this, FSSAI found that some laboratories did not fully comply. As a result, the authority issued this compliance order to ensure uniform implementation across India.
Key Directions Under the Order
The FSSAI Notified Laboratories Compliance Order 2026 sets out three clear requirements.
1. Upload All Test Reports on InFoLNet Without Delay
First, laboratories must upload test reports of all analysed food samples on the InFoLNet portal without delay. In addition, they must keep their InFoLNet profile updated at all times.
The profile must include:
• Valid accreditation details
• Updated contact information
• PT and ILC participation records
• Manpower details including Food Analysts
• Analytical scope and testing capacity
Moreover, the data must remain accurate and current. Incomplete or outdated information may trigger regulatory scrutiny.
2. Follow Prescribed and Validated Test Methods
Second, laboratories must use only validated and prescribed test methods under the Food Safety and Standards Rules and Regulations. They must also operate strictly within the accreditation scope granted by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories.
Therefore, laboratories cannot perform tests beyond their approved scope. They also cannot apply unapproved or modified methods without proper authorization.
3. Use the Prescribed Test Report Format
Third, laboratories must issue reports strictly in the format prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Rules and Regulations. They must not change the structure or omit required details.
Consistent reporting improves regulatory clarity. It also strengthens legal validity during enforcement or appeal proceedings.
Regulatory Consequences
FSSAI has clearly stated that continued non compliance may lead to action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Such action may affect the notification status of the laboratory.
Therefore, laboratories should treat this order as a priority compliance matter.
What Laboratories Should Do Now
To ensure alignment with the FSSAI Notified Laboratories Compliance Order 2026, laboratories should take the following steps:
• Conduct an internal review against Regulation 9 obligations
• Verify that all test reports appear on InFoLNet
• Check that accreditation details remain valid and updated
• Confirm that all test methods fall within NABL scope
• Standardize report templates as per FSSAI requirements
• Establish internal monitoring for ongoing compliance
In addition, management should document corrective actions. This approach demonstrates regulatory responsibility during inspections or audits.
Conclusion
The FSSAI Notified Laboratories Compliance Order 2026 strengthens accountability within the food testing framework. It emphasizes transparency, method control, and proper documentation.
Therefore, notified laboratories must review their systems and close any compliance gaps without delay. Continuous compliance will help maintain notification status and regulatory confidence.
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