The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory directing all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to immediately stop using metallic pins, staple pins, wires, and similar materials in food products and packaging. The measure aims to prevent accidental consumption, reduce the risk of injuries, and strengthen food safety practices across the food industry.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory requiring Food Business Operators (FBOs) to immediately discontinue the use of metallic pins, staple pins, wires, and similar materials for packaging, sealing, or securing food products.
The advisory follows reports of metallic pins being found in decorative cakes, bakery products, food parcels, sweet boxes, snack packets, and other food packages. FSSAI noted that the presence of such materials poses a significant food safety risk, as consumers may accidentally ingest them, leading to injuries and other adverse health effects.
Key requirements include:
- Immediate discontinuation of metallic pins and wires in food products and packaging.
- Adoption of safer alternatives for sealing and securing food packages.
- Compliance by all Food Business Operators involved in food preparation, packaging, and distribution.
- Adherence to food safety requirements under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI has warned that non-compliance may result in regulatory and penal action under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and related regulations.