On 16.12.2024, FSSAI released a new advisory regarding the provision of quarterly submission of data for the Rejected and Expired food Items
Table of Content
- FSSAI legal notification for food products
- FBO’s Responsibility on Food Segregation
- Expired Food Data submission through FoSCoS
- Need for the Data of Rejected foods
FSSAI legal notification for Expired food products
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a new provision requiring FSSAI Licensed Food Manufacturers, Repackers, Relabellers, and Importers to submit quarterly data regarding rejected and expired food products. This is mandated by Sections 26 and 27 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Business) Regulations, 2011, which require Food Business Operators (FBOs) to ensure food safety by segregating and properly storing rejected, recalled, or expired products.
FBO’s Responsibility on Food Segregation
Under these regulations, FBOs must segregate rejected or expired items and ensure they are clearly marked and stored securely. The FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expire, First Out) stock rotation methods must be applied for raw materials and finished products.
The new provision requires the quarterly submission of the following information by FBOs:
- Quantity of Rejected Food Items: The quality of food products rejected after failing internal quality tests or inspections
- Quantity of Expired Products: The quality of food products that have expired or have been returned due to quality issues.
- Action Taken: Detailed records on how these products were handled, including how they were destroyed, auctioned, or redirected for other uses. Specific details, such as the buyer for auctioned products or the waste disposal agency, must be included.
Expired Food Data submission through FoSCoS
This data must be submitted via the FoSCoS system once the provision is activated. In the meantime, FBOs are urged to begin compiling and maintaining accurate records to ensure they can easily submit the information when required.
Need for the Data of Rejected foods
The goal of this initiative is to prevent the resale of rejected or expired food products under false pretences, such as being sold as cattle feed or diverted for non-food purposes. This new requirement also emphasises the importance of proper record-keeping and accountability in the food industry.
FBOs are directed to make the necessary arrangements to comply with this provision to avoid delays in future submissions and maintain transparency in the disposal or repurposing of food products that fail to meet safety standards.
Notes: All Licensed Food Manufacturers (Including Repacker and Relabeller) & Impoters were requested to make the necessary arrangements to compile and maintain the required records.
Read the full advisory
