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New Delhi: India’s food safety regulator is preparing to strengthen regulations covering a range of food products and sales channels. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is reportedly examining a nationwide restriction on the sale of analog paneer, along with tighter controls on junk food sales near schools and improved transparency requirements for food sold through online platforms.
The proposed measures are part of a broader effort to improve food safety and encourage healthier eating habits, particularly among children.
Nationwide Restrictions on Analog Paneer Under Consideration
FSSAI is considering wider action against the sale of analog paneer after several states reportedly introduced restrictions on the product.
According to information shared by FSSAI officials, eight states have already taken steps related to the sale of analog paneer. These include Maharashtra, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka and Uttarakhand.
The food regulator is now exploring the possibility of implementing stricter rules at the national level.
Any nationwide decision, however, would depend on the regulatory process and the final guidelines issued by the authority.
Junk Food Sales Near Schools May Face Restrictions
FSSAI is also working on measures aimed at creating a healthier food environment for schoolchildren.
Draft regulations are reportedly being considered to restrict the sale of foods high in fat, sugar and salt, commonly referred to as HFSS foods, near educational institutions.
Under the proposed framework, the sale of such food products could be restricted within a 50-metre radius of schools.
The objective is to reduce children’s easy access to foods with low nutritional value and encourage healthier dietary choices.
The initiative is linked to FSSAI’s broader Eat Right campaign, which focuses on promoting safe and nutritious food habits across India.
Focus on Children’s Health and Nutrition
Health experts have frequently raised concerns about the growing availability of highly processed foods and beverages among children.
Food products containing excessive levels of sugar, salt or unhealthy fats are increasingly becoming a policy concern, particularly in areas surrounding schools.
By limiting the sale and promotion of HFSS foods near educational institutions, authorities aim to create an environment that supports healthier food choices.
Some regions have already introduced local restrictions related to the sale and advertising of junk food around schools.
Online and Quick-Commerce Platforms May Face Stricter Rules
FSSAI’s regulatory focus is not limited to traditional food stores.
The authority is also examining food products sold through e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, where customers increasingly purchase packaged foods and beverages.
One major concern involves the visibility of important product information, including manufacturing and expiry dates.
Reports suggest that food companies and online platforms may be required to display such information more clearly and prominently.
The move could help consumers make better-informed purchasing decisions while ordering food products online.
Greater Transparency for Online Food Buyers
With the rapid growth of online grocery and food delivery services, regulators are placing greater emphasis on consumer information and food safety compliance.
Clear display of manufacturing dates, expiry dates and other essential product details could become an important part of future compliance requirements.
The proposed measures reflect FSSAI’s wider push to strengthen food safety standards across offline stores, e-commerce marketplaces and quick-commerce platforms.
Final Rules Awaited
The proposed actions are still subject to the regulatory and consultation process. Final restrictions and implementation details will depend on official notifications and guidelines issued by FSSAI.
If approved, the new measures could significantly impact the sale of analog paneer, junk food around schools and packaged food products sold through digital platforms across India.
