FSSAI

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a complete ban on single-use plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka, and similar products. The draft amendment mandates the use of paper, paperboard, or naturally derived materials, prohibiting plastics and aluminium foil. This move aims to curb plastic waste and aligns with existing state-level bans on these products.

Authorities in Ghaziabad seized and destroyed 900 kg of adulterated paneer found unfit for consumption due to unsanitary storage and contamination. The fake paneer, reportedly made with milk powder, lime juice, and palm oil, was being transported for distribution across Delhi and NCR. Home tests can help identify such adulteration.

FSSAI has issued a stern warning against unsafe fruit ripening practices, directing states to strictly enforce regulations against prohibited artificial agents like calcium carbide. The advisory highlights serious health risks associated with these chemicals and mandates intensified market surveillance and legal action against offenders.

Intensified food safety inspections are underway across Jharkhand following a child's death from contaminated street food. Authorities are cracking down on unhygienic practices, unsafe street food, and artificial fruit ripening, with strict legal action promised against violators. Checks are targeting various food establishments and vendors, emphasizing hygiene and proper licensing.

Authorities in Delhi have busted an illegal distribution hub dealing in banned performance-enhancing drugs and expired health supplements. The raid uncovered significant quantities of expired and potentially unsafe products, highlighting the risks associated with the booming nutrition supplements market. This action underscores the need for stringent regulation to protect consumers, especially the youth.

Authorities have busted two illegal manufacturing units in Delhi, seizing over 1.5 lakh counterfeit sachets of popular brands like ENO and Nescafé. This crackdown highlights the growing problem of fake and adulterated food products in India, which poses a significant risk to consumers. The report also offers simple methods to detect common coffee adulterants like clay and chicory powder.

A Mumbai family of four died under mysterious circumstances, with authorities investigating if watermelon or other food items played a role. Samples of food and water have been sent for testing, with results expected soon. Police are awaiting forensic and post-mortem reports to determine the exact cause of death, while ruling out foul play for now.

Over 400 people fell ill in Gujarat's Dahod district following a wedding feast, suspected to be a food poisoning incident. Authorities have launched an investigation, collecting food samples and examining hygiene standards. This highlights the critical importance of FSSAI's food catering guidelines for preventing such outbreaks.

Ninety-seven employees fell ill and were hospitalized after consuming idli, vada, and sambar-rice at a company canteen in Bengaluru. Fermented foods require extra care in summer due to faster fermentation and increased risk of spoilage and contamination, potentially leading to food poisoning.

Authorities are intensifying fruit market inspections nationwide due to concerns over banned ripening agents like calcium carbide. The regulator warns of serious health risks from this practice, alongside the misuse of ethephon. States are directed to conduct targeted checks for illegal substances and unsafe practices, especially ahead of the peak fruit season, to ensure consumer safety.

Indian dairy packets use a color-coded system to quickly indicate milk fat content, with blue for toned, green for standardized, and orange for full cream. This visual shortcut simplifies choices for consumers, becoming an intuitive part of daily shopping habits and product identity.

India, the world's largest milk producer, faces challenges in maintaining quality and safety amidst a fragmented supply chain. While regulations exist, inconsistent enforcement and slow testing methods hinder proactive safety measures. Embracing decentralized, real-time testing technologies is crucial to build consumer trust and ensure milk quality keeps pace with rising demand.