FSSAI: Companies to submit scientific evidence of claims on food products

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to ask companies to submit a standardized format to obtain approval for their products which hit the markets.  "Representations submitted to the Science and Standards Division often lack requisite data or a harmonized format. To address this, and to ensure smooth management, tracking, and transparency by the Authority, a standardized format is hereby implemented for compliance", an office order issued by the Regulator on 24th December notes. Starting Jan 1, 2026, the regulator will shift from accepting simple "promises" to requiring hard "proof" for every claim and safety review.

Main highlights of the new policy:

a.   Mandatory scientific evidence needed for food safety review by stakeholders. The data includes its nutritional makeup (what exactly is in the food), potential allergy risks, studies proving it isn’t toxic and clear limits on how much is safe to eat.

b.   To ease the review process and spot the safety risks, a single, uniform format for all applications has been included. 

c.    Since, Indian diets and portion sizes are unique, companies must prove their products are safe specifically for Indian consumption patterns.

d.   The proof of the products being safe - that fact lies with the food company.  

e.   The data submitted by the Companies will remain confidential. If a product is already in stores, it doesn't need a new review unless a specific safety concern is raised. 

Our view: 

In November last year, in our News Article, we mentioned the action taken by FSSAI on drinks using the term ORS. After that, regular issues related to food safety have been regularly taken up by the Regulator. The latest guidelines issued is a step to ensure the safety of Indian consumers. It is welcome that the regulator has asked all stakeholders including industry associations, research institutions, professionals, and citizens to voluntarily share data generated through monitoring, internal assessments, or R&D relevant to food safety and nutrition.  

As Indians move up the per capita income ladder and consume more branded foods, this was a necessary initiative. Essentially FSSAI is now not content to carry out its own tests but also wants companies to be more accountable towards safety concerns. This should go a long way in improving the food standards in Indian context. 

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Link - https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/from-2026-new-food-products-will-face-stricter-checks-fssai-requires-companies-to-back-every-claim-with-scientific-evidence/articleshow/126267565.cms?from=mdr