The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has classified packaged drinking water and mineral water as a ‘High-Risk Food Category’ effective November 29, 2024. This classification mandates annual inspections and third-party audits for manufacturers to enhance consumer safety, following the removal of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification requirement. Experts emphasize that these measures are crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of packaged water in a market plagued by contamination concerns.
Enhanced Safety Measures for Packaged Water
The FSSAI’s reclassification requires all manufacturers of packaged drinking and mineral water to undergo annual, risk-based inspections before receiving their licenses. They must also comply with enhanced quality standards and submit to audits by FSSAI-recognised third-party food safety agencies. An FSSAI spokesperson stated, “This decision underscores our commitment to ensuring that consumers receive safe and high-quality drinking water.” These measures aim to address growing consumer concerns about the safety of packaged water, which has been linked to various health risks due to contamination.
Expert Insights on Consumer Safety
Experts in food safety have welcomed the FSSAI’s decision but also caution that the effectiveness of these regulations will depend on rigorous enforcement. Dr. Ramesh Gupta, a food safety consultant, noted, “While the new measures are a step in the right direction, continuous monitoring and transparent reporting are essential to build consumer trust.” He emphasized that manufacturers must adhere strictly to treatment processes that include filtration, reverse osmosis, and disinfection to ensure the water is free from harmful contaminants. Additionally, he advised consumers to remain vigilant and check for certifications on packaged water products before purchase.
Background on Regulatory Changes
This reclassification follows amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, which previously removed the mandatory BIS certification requirement for certain food products. While this change aimed to simplify compliance for manufacturers, it raised concerns about potential safety risks. The FSSAI’s new regulations are designed to fill this oversight gap by enforcing stricter checks on packaged water products. The authority’s proactive stance is critical in an environment where unlicensed manufacturers have been reported, with around 4,000 food business operators lacking proper FSSAI licenses.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The FSSAI’s classification of packaged drinking water as a high-risk category is a vital move towards safeguarding consumer health in India’s food industry. As reliance on packaged water increases amidst rising pollution levels, it is imperative that stringent quality controls are enforced. This initiative not only prioritises consumer safety but also holds manufacturers accountable for maintaining high standards in their production processes. How do you feel about these new regulations? Do you think they will effectively enhance safety in the packaged water industry? We invite you to share your thoughts and engage in this important conversation!
