The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated that online food delivery platforms must ensure that the food products they sell have a minimum shelf life of 45 days. This new regulation aims to enhance food safety and consumer protection by ensuring that products are not nearing expiration when they reach customers.
The directive comes in response to concerns about the sale of food items with limited shelf lives or those close to expiry, which can pose health risks to consumers. The FSSAI’s move is intended to standardize food safety across online platforms, making sure that food items are not only fresh but also safe for consumption over a reasonable period.
The FSSAI has instructed food businesses to comply with this rule by ensuring that products listed for sale on e-commerce platforms are properly labeled with expiration dates, providing clear information about the freshness and safety of the products. This is especially important given the growth of online food sales, where ensuring the quality and safety of food is critical.
The regulation is expected to impact various food categories, including packaged foods, snacks, and other non-perishable items sold through online channels. The FSSAI’s goal is to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and promote better consumer health practices in the growing e-commerce food sector.