In a decisive move to strengthen oversight of the country’s food safety testing framework, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the recognition of four private food testing laboratories for a period of six months. The action follows their failure to comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Recognition and Notification of Laboratories) Regulations, 2018.
According to FSSAI’s official notification, recognition has been suspended for the following laboratories:
Eko Pro Engineers Private Limited, Ghaziabad
Food Analysis and Research Laboratory (FARL), Allahabad
Regional Food Research & Analysis Centre, Lucknow (Department of Horticulture & Food Processing, Government of Uttar Pradesh)
CVR Labs Private Limited, Chennai
The suspensions were imposed after FSSAI conducted comprehensive assessments and audits, during which several critical deviations were identified. These included gaps in operational practices, documentation protocols, and adherence to mandatory regulatory standards. The lapses were considered substantial enough to potentially compromise the reliability and integrity of food testing—an essential pillar for consumer safety and regulatory decision-making.
During the six-month suspension period, these laboratories are barred from conducting any testing activities under the Food Safety and Standards Act. FSSAI has directed them to implement corrective measures, upgrade their systems, and demonstrate full compliance before their recognition can be reinstated.
Industry professionals view this step as part of FSSAI’s broader and more stringent strategy to ensure that only competent, well-equipped, and fully compliant laboratories operate within India’s food safety ecosystem. The move highlights the regulator’s increasing vigilance against lapses that may lead to inaccurate or compromised food test results, ultimately affecting public health outcomes.
FSSAI has also advised food businesses to verify the current recognition status of laboratories before submitting samples for mandatory testing, ensuring compliance and safeguarding consumer interests.