As part of the Tea Board of India’s revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for 100% dust tea auctions, issued through a notice dated 18th August 2025, a significant emphasis has been placed on food safety compliance. This update reinforces the obligation of tea manufacturers to align with national health and safety standards, particularly those established by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
1. Regulatory Requirement for Food Safety Compliance
In accordance with Paragraph 28(1) of the Tea (Marketing) Control Order, 2003, all teas intended for auction must comply with:
- The provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011
- Any other applicable food safety regulations issued by competent authorities
Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products meet these standards prior to listing them for tea auction.
2. Procedure for Handling Non-Compliant Tea Lots
In cases where a batch of dust tea is identified as non-compliant with FSSAI standards- Food Products Standards and Food Additives; Chapter 2.10, Labelling and Display, Advertising and Claims, Contaminants, Toxins and Residues, the Tea Board of India mandates a strict protocol:
- The tea must be withdrawn from the auction catalogue before the scheduled sale date.
- The broker is required to notify the Tea Board of India regarding the withdrawal.
- The seller must obtain formal approval for destruction of the non-compliant tea, adhering to the Tea Board’s prescribed procedures.
This ensures that only safe and compliant products are made available to buyers, thereby upholding public health standards and industry credibility.
3. Strategic Importance of Enforcing Compliance
The Tea Board’s enforcement of FSSAI compliance within the auction framework serves several strategic objectives:
- Safeguarding consumer health and safety
- Promoting accountability and transparency in tea marketing
- Enhancing India’s global reputation as a producer of high-quality, safe teas
Conclusion
The integration of FSSAI compliance into the auction system underlines the Government’s priority of aligning commodity trade with food safety requirements. For tea manufacturers, this serves as a reminder that maintaining product quality and compliance is not just a legal obligation but also a key factor in sustaining consumer trust and market access.
Want to stay ahead of FSSAI advisories and food safety regulations? Download the myFSSAI App for real-time alerts, enforcement updates, and expert compliance guidance all in one place.
For full details, refer to the Circular here