FSSAI's Directive on Categorization of Food Products on E-Commerce Platforms

Summary and Important Points:

1. FSSAI's Directive: Advises e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs) to categorize food products correctly on their platforms.

2. Misclassification Issue: Incorrect listing of 'Proprietary Food' products as 'Health Drink' or 'Energy Drink', which are not standardized terms under FSS Act 2006.

3. Corrective Measures: E-commerce FBOs are instructed to delist or appropriately recategorize these products as per extant law.

4. Definition of Proprietary Foods: Foods that are not standardized but use standardized ingredients.

5. Energy Drinks Criteria: Permitted use of the term for products licensed under specific Food Category System codes, following regulations.

Additional Information:

• Proprietary Foods Regulations: Governed by Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations and others.

• Energy Drinks Standards: Specified under Food Product Standards and Food Additives Regulations 2011 (Caffeinated Beverage).

• FSSAI: Regulatory authority ensuring food safety and standards in India.

Examination Perspective and Concise Points for Use:

• Discuss the role of FSSAI in regulating e-commerce food sales and ensuring consumer safety.

• Analyze the impact of misclassification of food products on consumer choices and health.

• Examine the regulatory framework for proprietary foods and energy drinks in India.

Key Words to Remember:

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

• E-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs)

• Proprietary Food

Link to Article : Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

Released On : 02 April 2024