On August 31, 2022, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a notification for the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) First Amendment Regulations, 2022. This amendment reinforces quality and safety standards for specific food products, specifically Packaged Drinking Water (Other than Packaged Natural Mineral Water), to ensure compliance with Indian regulations and elevate food safety. 

If you are engaged in manufacturing, importing, or selling Packaged Drinking Water (Other than Packaged Natural Mineral Water), this amendment directly impacts your business operations. Issued under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, this regulation mandates adherence to standards developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and is set forth to protect public health and consumer safety. 

Key Provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) First Amendment Regulations, 2022 

1. Title and Implementation Timeline 

Officially named the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) First Amendment Regulations, 2022, this regulation will come into force as of April 1, 2023. Compliance requirements are universal for businesses of all sizes to ensure consistent quality in the food sector. 

2. Mandatory BIS Certification for Packaged Drinking Water

The central provision of this amendment is the requirement for all Packaged Drinking Water (Other than Packaged Natural Mineral Water) to bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark). Products must conform to Indian Standard IS 14543, ensuring they meet strict quality and safety standards.

·   Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to use the ISI Mark, demonstrating compliance with essential health and safety standards for Packaged Drinking Water (Other than Packaged Natural Mineral Water).

·  This certification requirement applies to products sold within the domestic market, with exemptions for items produced exclusively for export. 

3. BIS as the Certifying Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the sole certifying authority for this amendment. BIS will be responsible for certifying and enforcing compliance to ensure that only products meeting Indian standards reach consumers, maintaining public safety and integrity in food quality. 

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Entities failing to comply with the requirements of this amendment will face strict penalties as per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This measure underscores the government’s dedication to enforcing high food safety standards and holding non-compliant businesses accountable to protect consumer health.

This amendment represents a significant step toward strengthening food quality standards for essential dairy products in the Indian market. It reflects FSSAI's commitment to consumer protection and industry compliance, aligning with the government’s goal of elevating food safety standards across India. 

Stay compliant and prepare your business for these important regulatory changes to continue operating within the guidelines of the industry!

BIS Certification for Packaged Drinking Water IS 14543