FSSAI mandates registration for milk producers

metro india news  I new delhi

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made it mandatory for milk producers and milk vendors to obtain registration or a license to operate their businesses, amid growing concerns over suspected milk adulteration reported in several states and Union Territories.

In an advisory issued to food safety commissioners across the country, the regulator said that all milk producers, except those who are registered members of dairy cooperative societies and supply their entire milk to the society, must register with FSSAI. Milk vendors who sell or distribute milk directly to consumers, shops, hotels or other establishments are also required to obtain registration or a license.

FSSAI noted that several milk producers who are not members of dairy cooperative societies, as well as milk vendors, are currently operating without registering themselves or obtaining the required license to conduct food business activities. The regulator has directed such operators to obtain registration before starting or continuing their business operations.

The authority said the move is aimed at strengthening monitoring of the milk supply chain and addressing concerns related to milk adulteration. It stressed that strict compliance with registration and licensing requirements must be ensured to safeguard public health.

FSSAI has also instructed enforcement authorities of the central government and all states and Union Territories to verify whether milk producers and vendors possess valid registration certificates or licenses. Designated officers, central licensing authorities and food safety officers have been asked to check compliance during inspections.

The regulator further directed officials to periodically inspect milk chillers used by producers and vendors to ensure proper storage temperatures and prevent spoilage. Authorities have been advised to initiate appropriate action in cases of non-compliance. States and Union Territories have also been asked to conduct special registration drives to ensure all eligible milk producers and vendors obtain the required FSSAI registration or license.