FSSAI directs e-commerce food operators to ensure minimum shelf life of 45 days

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated that e-commerce food business operators (FBOs), including platforms like Swiggy, Zomato and BigBasket, must ensure that food products delivered to consumers have a minimum remaining shelf life of 30% or at least 45 days before their expiry date.

This directive aims to prevent the distribution of expired or near-expiry products and is part of broader efforts to ensure consumer safety and responsible food handling practices.

In a recent meeting with over 200 participants, including industry representatives and regulatory officials, FSSAI emphasized the importance of transparency and accuracy in product information. The meeting, chaired by the CEO of FSSAI, stressed that online food platforms must adhere to stringent food safety norms and avoid misleading claims regarding the products sold. The CEO highlighted that no FBO should operate on an e-commerce platform without a valid FSSAI license or registration, underlining the necessity of regulatory compliance.

FSSAI also called on e-commerce platforms to enhance food safety protocols across the delivery process. This includes implementing thorough training programs for delivery personnel to ensure they follow proper hygiene and safety practices. The authority further advised that food and non-food items should be delivered separately to avoid cross-contamination.

Additionally, FSSAI clarified that e-commerce platforms cannot sidestep food safety regulations, even in the case of fast delivery services, such as the 10-minute delivery models that have gained popularity. The new measures are designed to protect consumer health and promote trust in India’s expanding digital food marketplaces.