FSSAI Tightens Rules on E-commerce Food Shelf Life

The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) directed e-commerce platforms to maintain a minimum food shelf life of 30 to 45 days at delivery. Reinforcing regulatory compliance, e-commerce FBOs must provide accurate labels and separate delivery of food items. The measures aim to protect consumer health.

The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued new directives to e-commerce platforms concerning the shelf life of food products sold online. Platforms are now required to ensure that food items have a minimum shelf life of 30 to 45 days remaining before delivery to customers.

During a meeting with e-commerce food business operators, the FSSAI emphasized strict adherence to labeling and display regulations, warning against unsupported claims on product pages. The regulator also highlighted the necessity of proper training for delivery personnel and the importance of separating food and non-food deliveries to prevent contamination.

The FSSAI is also increasing surveillance efforts, urging state authorities to boost inspections of e-commerce warehouses and implement standard operating procedures for delivery personnel to ensure safe food delivery. This push comes ahead of the peak tourist season, as part of broader efforts to enhance food safety standards nationwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)