In a significant move to enhance consumer safety, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reclassified packaged drinking water and mineral water as ‘High-Risk Food Categories’. This reclassification mandates stricter regulatory oversight, including mandatory inspections and third-party audits, to ensure the safety and quality of these widely consumed products.
The decision follows the government’s recent removal of the mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for certain products, including packaged water. In response, FSSAI stated, “As a consequence of the omission of the mandatory Bureau of India (BIS) certification for certain products, it has been decided that ‘Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water’ will be treated under ‘High-Risk Food Categories.'”
Under the new regulations, manufacturers of packaged drinking and mineral water are required to undergo annual, risk-based inspections before obtaining a license or registration. Additionally, these businesses must participate in annual audits conducted by FSSAI-recognized third-party food safety agencies. These measures aim to enforce stricter safety protocols and enhance consumer confidence by ensuring higher safety standards.
The packaged drinking water industry had previously advocated for streamlined regulations, calling for the removal of dual certification requirements from both BIS and FSSAI. FSSAI’s reclassification addresses these concerns while emphasizing the necessity for rigorous safety measures to protect public health.
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This development underscores FSSAI’s commitment to strengthening food safety regulations in India, particularly for products with widespread daily consumption. By categorizing packaged drinking water as a high-risk food, FSSAI aims to ensure that consumers have access to safe and quality-assured drinking water.
