FSSAI Warns E-Commerce Platforms of Severe Consequences for Non-Compliance with Food Safety Protocols

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a stern warning to e-commerce platforms regarding food safety compliance. During a meeting led by FSSAI CEO G Kamala Vardhana Rao, over 70 representatives from major e-commerce companies were present. The meeting aimed to enhance food safety and hygiene practices within the e-commerce food supply chain.

Rao emphasised the critical nature of food safety in the fast-growing e-commerce sector. He warned that any failure to adhere to food safety protocols would be taken very seriously, potentially resulting in severe consequences. E-commerce platforms were instructed to display their FSSAI License or Registration numbers on all receipts, invoices, and cash memos given to consumers.

Food Safety Protocols and Training

All e-commerce entities must ensure strict compliance with hygiene and food safety standards across their warehouses and storage facilities. Rao mandated that every food handler, including e-commerce staff, complete the FSSAI FoSTaC Food Safety Training & Certification programme. Platforms are required to submit their training plans and timelines to FSSAI.

The regulator also insisted on the inclusion of information about the Food Safety Connect App on all consumer-facing documents. Additionally, there was a discussion about possibly displaying the Date of Expiry or Use By dates for food products at the consumer interface.

Warehouse Registration and Data Sharing

E-commerce companies must disclose details of all warehouses and storage facilities associated with their operations on the FoSCoS portal. All such facilities should be registered or licensed by FSSAI. The platforms were also directed to share data related to their warehouses, food handlers, and other pertinent information with FSSAI.

Furthermore, Rao instructed that all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and rules under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act) must be followed diligently by these platforms. This includes maintaining transparency in operations and ensuring that all processes meet regulatory standards.

The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining high standards of food safety as e-commerce continues to expand rapidly. By enforcing these measures, FSSAI aims to safeguard consumer health and ensure trust in online food purchases.

With inputs from PTI