The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed food companies to ensure that storage and transport of perishable food products are done under appropriate temperature conditions across the supply chain to safeguard public health. It has also directed state FDAs to maintain strict vigilance and take action against violations.
“It has been brought to the notice of FSSAI that perishable food commodities such as khoa, paneer, meat, fish, etc., are at times not handled, stored or transported under appropriate temperature conditions. Owing to the perishable nature, these food items are highly susceptible to microbial growth and spoilage, if not maintained under appropriate temperature conditions,” it said in an advisory posted on social media on Sunday.
The food safety regulator noted that the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011 have specified hygienic and sanitary requirements for Food Business Operators. It stressed in its advisory that FBOs are required to maintain the prescribed temperature throughout the supply chain, from procurement or sourcing to delivery to the end-consumer. The regulations also specify that handling and transportation of such products should be carried out under controlled temperature conditions. “Subjecting these food products to temperature abuse may adversely affect food safety and public health and constitutes non-compliance with the hygiene and sanitary requirements prescribed under the regulations,” it added.
The food safety regulator has directed all FBOs engaged in the manufacture, packing, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of the perishable food commodities to ensure strict compliance with these regulations. It has asked players to ensure only clean, covered, and hygienic vehicles are used. It has also said that the prescribed temperature conditions must be maintained during storage and transportation and only food-grade packaging and suitable secondary packaging materials should be used. It has also stressed that food products should be protected from dust, moisture, pests, physical damage and cross-contamination during storage, loading, unloading and transportation. Also, FBOs must maintain appropriate records and traceability of consignments and produce invoices or other relevant documents.
The regulator has also asked State Food Safety Commissioners and Regional Directors of FSSAI to direct the concerned licensing authorities and food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance during inspections and transportation checks to ensure compliance with the law.
Published on October 18, 2026
