India has rejected food imports from China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Turkey this year due to safety concerns, highlighting its stringent food safety protocols. The launch of the FIRA portal facilitates swift communication on rejected imports to manage health risks efficiently. The FSSAI implements rigorous verification processes to ensure compliance with national food safety standards, reinforcing its commitment to protecting public health.

In 2023, India has taken measures to reject multiple food consignments from several countries, including China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Turkey, due to inadequate adherence to its food safety standards. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has unveiled the Food Import Rejection Alert (FIRA) portal, allowing for the swift sharing of information on rejected food products to mitigate health risks at the national and international levels. Specific rejections include apples, nuts, alcoholic beverages, and sushi, necessitating immediate efforts by food authorities to manage potential hazards effectively.

In compliance with Regulation 11(7) of the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulation, 2017, the FSSAI is authorized to issue alerts regarding food imports. The FIRA portal highlights the rejection of various products, including Sri Lankan Arecanut, which displayed visible mold and defects, and Japanese tea bags, deemed non-compliant because the ingredient ‘Rooibos’ lacks approval as a permitted botanical in India. Similarly, Turkey’s fresh red apples were rejected due to their short shelf life, while multiple products from China were discarded over heavy metal contamination.

To ensure safety and quality in imported food, the FSSAI follows a rigorous three-tier verification process that includes document scrutiny, visual inspections, and laboratory testing. The primary reasons for product rejection typically relate to safety standards, quality criteria, and labeling deficiencies. Since India imports food items from over 100 nations, maintaining stringent checks helps ensure public health and safety while establishing robust import regulations.

Despite numerous inquiries to relevant authorities, including the health ministry and concerned embassies, responses regarding specific reasons behind these rejections have remained elusive. The FSSAI’s proactive stance underlines its commitment to upholding food safety protocols in the face of global trade challenges.

India’s food safety regulations have become increasingly stringent, necessitating compliance from importers in over 100 countries. The establishment of the FIRA portal marks a significant advancement in food safety management, enabling rapid communication and action regarding rejected food imports. The aim is to protect public health by enforcing standards that address potential risks, including contamination and non-compliance with labeling requirements. Rejections often involve detailed investigations into product safety and quality, reflecting India’s dedication to ensuring that imported food meets national safety benchmarks.

India’s rejection of food consignments from various countries highlights its commitment to food safety and quality regulation. By implementing the FIRA portal and a comprehensive verification process, the FSSAI is actively managing health risks associated with importation. This not only safeguards public health but also emphasizes the importance of stringent quality control in global food trade. Continuous dialogue and compliance with safety standards will remain vital as India engages with international food suppliers.

Original Source: www.livemint.com

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