April 1, 2020
FSSAI has classified the import clearance of food products and functioning of certified food testing laboratories, including National Food Labs, under Essential Services during the outbreak COVID-19.
All the people who are incharge of the above essential services are required to be present and made available in office and work areas on all working days i.e. Monday to Friday between 9:30 am to 6:00 pm in order to smoothen the trade as well as ensure easy operation of related services across the country.
FSSAI has its fully operational offices at 6 locations in six cities of the country namely Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin and Tuticorin. All these offices are wholly functioning for scrutiny of applications, visual inspection and sampling for import clearance to ensure speedy processing of applications and timely issuance of proper NOC. Hence, all the food importers are directed to likewise inform their respective clearing agents accordingly.
All the food importers who might face any problems or obstacles, or need any further clarification and assistance in this regard are requested to contact FSSAI’s regional offices or email their queries at import@fssai.gov.in. The details of various regional offices are readily available on the website.
A watch-guard, FSSAI is keeping an attentive eye on the situation and it will continue relentlessly to assist food importers and guarantees regular supervision and testing of food items. FSSAI will also take suitable action to ensure the safety of food and food products.