The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued the Food Safety and Standards (Import) First Amendment Regulations, 2025, through a Gazette notification dated 27 October 2025. The amendment updates the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2017, and introduces key changes in the testing and reporting procedures for imported food items. These new rules will come into force on 1 May 2026.
Under the revised provisions, laboratories that test imported food articles must now follow the latest analytical methods approved or adopted by FSSAI. When a particular testing method is not listed in FSSAI’s manual, laboratories can use validated methods recognized by international agencies such as AOAC, ISO, Pearson’s, Jacob, IUPAC, Food Chemicals Codex, BIS, or Codex Alimentarius. This ensures that testing standards for Imports remain accurate, reliable, and aligned with global scientific practices.
The amendment also sets a specific timeframe for laboratory reporting. Each notified or referral laboratory must issue its analysis report within five days of receiving the food sample. The report must be signed by the Food Analyst or the Director of the laboratory in the prescribed Form 2. This step promotes accountability and helps reduce delays in import clearance.
The revised regulations strengthen oversight on Imports by ensuring consistent testing and faster decision-making. They also aim to reduce hold-ups at ports while maintaining strong safety checks. By introducing clearer procedures, FSSAI supports both trade facilitation and consumer protection.
Through these changes, FSSAI reinforces its commitment to safe and efficient food Imports. Laboratories, importers, and regulatory officers must review their procedures to comply with the new standards before 1 May 2026. The amendment marks a decisive move toward a transparent, reliable, and globally aligned food import system in India.