NewzVille Desk
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all food business operators (FBOs) to use only food-grade and corrosion-resistant knives, blades and other cutting equipment in food handling and processing activities.
In an advisory, the food regulator noted that some food businesses have been found using rusted, corroded, chipped, painted, damaged or otherwise unsuitable knives and cutting tools during food handling and processing operations.
According to FSSAI, the use of such equipment can lead to physical, chemical and microbiological contamination of food, posing risks to consumer safety.
FSSAI said that all equipment, utensils and food-contact surfaces used in food preparation, processing, packaging and storage must be made of food-grade, non-toxic and corrosion-resistant materials and maintained in a hygienic condition.
FSSAI has directed food businesses to ensure that cutting equipment remains free from rust, corrosion, cracks, paint, chipping and other defects.
The authority has also instructed operators to immediately replace damaged or unsuitable equipment and follow prescribed cleaning, sanitisation and sterilisation procedures at regular intervals.
It is warned that any non-compliance will invite action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and related regulations. State Food Safety Commissioners, Licensing Authorities and Food Safety Officers have been asked to maintain strict vigilance during inspections and take appropriate action against violations.
