The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently categorized packaged drinking water and mineral water as “high-risk foods,” intensifying regulatory measures to ensure safety and quality.
About High Risk Foods Classification:
What it is: High-risk foods are those requiring stringent safety protocols due to their potential to impact public health if mishandled.
Authority: Governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Law Governing: Regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Why Classification:
- To ensure enhanced consumer safety through rigorous testing and monitoring.
- To replace the dual certification process, streamlining regulatory requirements.
Other Products Under High-Risk Category:
- Dairy products and analogues.
- Meat, poultry, fish, and seafood.
- Eggs and egg products.
- Prepared and fortified foods (e.g., fortified rice kernels).
- Specialised food products for nutritional uses.
Significance of Classification:
- Promotes higher safety standards via mandatory inspections and audits.
- Simplifies industry compliance by eliminating redundancy, such as BIS certification.
- Increases consumer trust in food safety measures.
Question: Under which law are high-risk foods regulated in India?
a) The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954
b) The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
c) The Essential Commodities Act, 1955
d) The Consumer Protection Act, 2019
Question: Which of the following is NOT classified as a high-risk food category by FSSAI?
a) Dairy products and analogues
b) Fortified rice kernels
c) Packaged drinking water and mineral water
d) Whole grains and raw pulses
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