Key Update

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Pune division, has warned hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and sweet and farsan manufacturers against using unauthorised food colours. The department said it would take strict action against establishments that violate food safety regulations.

FDA Suspends Dhaba’s FSSAI Registration

The warning follows a recent inspection of Punjabi Dhaba in Lohegaon, Pune, where FDA officials identified several food safety and hygiene violations, including the use of food colours. Consequently, the department suspended the establishment’s FSSAI registration with immediate effect.

FDA Clarifies Rules on Food Colour Usage

D. V. Bhogawade, Joint Commissioner (Food), FDA Pune Division, clarified that food businesses must use colours strictly in accordance with FSSAI regulations. He warned that the department would treat the use of colours in food categories where they are not permitted, as well as the use of approved colours beyond prescribed limits, as serious violations. Furthermore, the FDA stated that serious food safety violations could lead to immediate suspension of an establishment’s FSSAI licence or registration. Authorities may also initiate prosecution and legal proceedings under applicable laws.

Hotels and Food Manufacturers Directed to Ensure Compliance

The FDA has specifically instructed hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and other ready-to-eat food establishments to avoid adding food colours unless FSSAI regulations explicitly permit their use in the relevant food category. Additionally, officials urged Indian sweet and farsan manufacturers to understand the regulations governing food colours and maintain proper control over their use. The department’s warning reinforces the need for food businesses to follow prescribed standards and avoid unauthorised additives that could compromise food safety.

Source: The Indian Express