Enhancing Food Safety and Consumer Information: FSSAI’s Latest Move

In a significant development aimed at bolstering food safety and quality standards, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced noteworthy amendments to the prevailing regulations governing alcoholic beverages. These changes, unveiled through the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, reflect FSSAI’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of consumers and the integrity of the industry. The amendments, slated to take effect from March 1, 2024, encompass several crucial aspects of alcoholic beverage regulations.

Engaging the Public: A Consultative Approach

The foundation for these groundbreaking revisions was laid with the draft proposal of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Amendment Regulations, 2022. The draft was presented for public feedback, in accordance with section 92(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The FSSAI invited objections and suggestions from the public during a sixty-day window, following the release of a notification on May 17, 2022. This commitment to inclusive governance underscores FSSAI’s dedication to transparency and accountability.

Key Amendments at a Glance

1. Refined Definitions for Whisky Types

Part 2 of the revised regulations delves into the classification of various whisky types. A notable alteration involves the definition of single-malt whisky. The new definition specifies that single malt whisky must be distilled from exclusively malted barley, omitting any other grains. Additionally, it must be distilled in a pot still and produced within a single distillery. The regulations also introduce a fresh concept—single-grain whisky. This category encompasses a distillate obtained from fermented mash, utilizing malted or unmalted grains, while explicitly excluding other whisky types.

2. Nutritional Information on Labels

Part 5 of the regulations, which pertains to labeling requirements, introduces a noteworthy change regarding nutritional information. Alcoholic beverages labels will no longer be mandated to display nutritional information, barring the energy content expressed in kilocalories (kcal). However, the declaration of energy content remains optional, granting consumers insight into the caloric value of their chosen beverages.

Smooth Transition and Implementation

The Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, are poised to take effect on March 1, 2024. This transitional phase allows stakeholders, including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, to adapt to the revised labeling prerequisites and definitions. The grace period serves as a bridge to a seamless integration of the changes into industry practices.

Advancing Consumer Safety and Industry Integrity

FSSAI’s relentless pursuit of elevating food safety standards and ensuring consumer satisfaction shines through in these regulatory enhancements. The Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, represent a significant stride towards harmonizing regulations with the dynamic landscape of the industry. As the implementation date approaches, stakeholders are urged to acquaint themselves with these revisions, fostering compliance and a smooth transition into the new regulatory framework.

Source:https://www.fssai.gov.in/