To ensure food safety, hygiene, and compliance with regulatory standards, the following packaging material requirements shall be adhered to by all food business operators:
1. Printed Surface Contact Restriction
The printed surface of any packaging material shall not come into direct contact with food products. Only the non-printed surface, free from inks or dyes, may be used for direct food contact to prevent chemical migration and contamination.
2. Prohibition on Use of Newspapers
Newspapers or similar materials such as recycled printed paper shall not be used for storing, wrapping, or serving food under any circumstances, due to the presence of ink and potential harmful contaminants.
3. Requirements for Multilayer Packaging Materials
a. In the case of multilayer packaging, only the layer in direct contact with food or any layer likely to come into such contact shall comply with the material standards specified in Schedules I, II, and III of the relevant packaging regulations.
b. These Schedules outline the required specifications for:
4. Mandatory Certification of Packaging Material
Every food business operator must obtain a Certificate of Conformity for the packaging materials that come in direct contact with food. This certificate must be issued by a NABL-accredited laboratory, confirming compliance with the applicable schedules and ensuring the safety and suitability of the materials for food contact use.
This clause aims to enhance consumer protection and promote responsible practices in the food packaging industry.
Penalty for non-compliance:
The use of unsafe packaging materials, including non-food-grade plastics, inks, or recycled components, is strictly prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018. Any violation may attract a penalty of up to ₹1,00,000 and, in cases of repeated non-compliance, may lead to suspension or cancellation of the food business operator’s license
Read more about the regulation from: https://fssai.gov.in/cms/food-safety-and-standards-regulations.php
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