Food regulator FSSAI has asked food business operators (FBOs) to transport perishable items under controlled-temperature conditions across the supply chain to safeguard public health.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has also asked State food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance and take action if rules are not followed. The regulator has asked FBOs to transport only in clean, covered, and hygienic vehicles or conveyances suitable for food transportation. FSSAI mentioned that it has specified hygienic and sanitary requirements for FBOs under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
Because of their perishable nature, these food items are highly susceptible to microbial growth and spoilage if not maintained under appropriate temperature conditions.
“It has been brought to the notice of FSSAI that perishable food commodities such as khoa, paneer , meat, fish, etc., are at times not handled, stored or transported under appropriate temperature conditions,” the advisory noted. “Subjecting these food products to temperature abuse may adversely affect public health and constitute non-compliance with the hygiene and sanitary requirements,” the advisory said. FBOs have also been told to use only food-grade packaging and suitable secondary packaging materials.
