Key Update

The All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation (AICPDF) has raised concerns over the mishandling of damaged and expired food products, warning that delays in action could pose serious risks to public health. In a formal communication to Parle Products Pvt. Ltd., the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, AICPDF highlighted what it described as a persistent and unresolved issue across the FMCG supply chain. The federation stated that large quantities of expired and damaged goods continue to remain at distributor points without proper collection, replacement, or safe disposal, despite repeated follow-ups.

Kerala Case Raises Fresh Concerns

The issue gained urgency after a recent case in Kerala, where expired and damaged stock worth nearly ₹5 crore reportedly remained unattended at distributor facilities. AICPDF warned that such accumulation increases the risk of these products re-entering the market, either intentionally or by accident.

Calls for Immediate Action and Accountability

Calling the situation a direct threat to consumer safety, AICPDF National President Dhairyashil Patil said that delays in removing and destroying unsafe food items could lead to serious health hazards. The federation also pointed to a lack of accountability among major FMCG companies and noted gaps in compliance with food safety norms.

AICPDF has urged authorities to act immediately by ensuring scientific disposal of expired products, timely compensation or replacement for distributors, and stricter penalties for non-compliance. It has also called for a mandatory standard operating procedure (SOP) to standardise safe handling and destruction practices. The federation warned that continued inaction could erode consumer trust and escalate into a wider public health concern.

Source: NDTV