FSSAI cracks down on food safety violations, orders immediate removal of rusted knives and damaged cutting equipment
PTC Web Desk: In a significant move aimed at strengthening food safety standards across the country, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to immediately remove and replace rusted, corroded, chipped, painted, cracked or otherwise damaged knives, blades and cutting equipment used in food handling and processing.
The advisory, issued by FSSAI's Regulatory Compliance Division, highlights growing concerns over the use of unsuitable cutting tools in food preparation, processing, slicing and packaging operations. According to the regulator, such equipment can pose serious risks of contamination and compromise consumer health.
The directive refers to Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, which requires all food-contact equipment and utensils to be made of food-grade, non-toxic, corrosion-resistant materials and maintained in hygienic condition.
FSSAI said it has received information indicating that some food businesses continue to use rusted and damaged cutting implements despite existing regulatory requirements. The authority noted that the practice increases the likelihood of physical, chemical and microbiological contamination of food products.
Under the advisory, food businesses have been instructed to use only food-grade and corrosion-resistant knives, blades, and cutting tools. Operators must ensure that all such equipment remains free from rust, corrosion, paint, cracks, chipping, or breakage. Any damaged or unsuitable equipment currently in use must be withdrawn and replaced without delay.
The regulator has also emphasised the need for regular cleaning, sanitisation, and sterilisation of knives and cutting equipment at prescribed intervals to maintain food hygiene standards.
Warning of strict enforcement, FSSAI stated that any non-compliance detected during inspections may invite action under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations.
To ensure implementation, Commissioners of Food Safety in all States and Union Territories, along with FSSAI Regional Directors, have been directed to instruct Licensing Authorities and Food Safety Officers to maintain heightened vigilance during inspections and take appropriate enforcement measures wherever violations are identified.
The advisory has been circulated to food business operators nationwide and key regulatory authorities. FSSAI has also initiated wider dissemination through digital and social media platforms to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining safe and hygienic food-contact equipment.
- With inputs from agencies
