Key Update

Nepal has banned the import, sale, and distribution of Priyagold biscuits manufactured by India’s Surya Food and Agro Ltd, following serious food safety concerns raised by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Nepal’s Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) announced the restrictions after Indian authorities flagged the use of cattle-feed bran in biscuit production and identified significant hygiene violations at the manufacturing facility.

FSSAI Flags Serious Food Safety Violations

During an inspection of Surya Food and Agro Ltd, FSSAI reportedly discovered several food safety and hygiene deficiencies, including the alleged use of cattle-feed bran in manufacturing Priyagold biscuits. Following these findings, the Indian food regulator suspended the company’s food licence and initiated legal proceedings to prosecute the reported violations.

Nepal Orders Ban and Product Recall

Acting on FSSAI’s findings, Nepal’s Department of Food Technology and Quality Control imposed restrictions on Priyagold biscuits, describing the products as substandard. The department made the decision during an emergency virtual meeting led by Director General Sanjeev Kumar Karna. Officials cited public health protection and consumer safety as the primary reasons for the immediate action.

The department directed importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to stop importing, selling, or distributing the affected biscuits. It also instructed authorised importers and food traders to immediately recall existing stocks from the Nepalese market.

Cross-Border Food Safety Concerns

The development highlights the importance of regulatory coordination in addressing food safety violations.

Source: The Telegraph Online