The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently classified packaged drinking water and mineral water as a 'High-Risk Food Category'. This significant decision aims to enhance safety standards and ensure better consumer health protection.
Under the new regulations, all manufacturers of packaged drinking and mineral water will now be subject to annual inspections and third-party audits. These inspections are crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of these products.
This classification follows the government's earlier decision to remove the requirement for certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for these products. The FSSAI's move reflects growing concerns about the safety and quality of packaged water, which is often consumed by millions across the country.
High-risk food products are those that have a significant potential to cause foodborne illnesses if not handled, processed, or stored correctly. They require rigorous monitoring due to their susceptibility to contamination by pathogens.
Manufacturers will need to undergo mandatory risk-based inspections before being granted licenses or registrations. This ensures that only those who meet stringent safety standards can operate in this high-risk category.
The primary goal of this classification is to protect consumers from potential health hazards associated with contaminated water. With rising awareness about food safety, this move is expected to improve public health outcomes significantly.