The FSSAI Labelling & Display Amendment Regulations, 2025 introduce key changes to improve transparency in food product labeling. The amendment mandates that nutrition information regarding per serve percentage (%) contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content be displayed in bold letters with a relatively increased font size. This aims to enhance consumer awareness of critical nutritional components. Additionally, all milk and milk-based products must carry a specific logo, with defined size requirements based on the principal display panel area, to ensure easy identification. Furthermore, for coffee-chicory mixtures, the regulation now requires that specific declarations be prominently displayed on the front of the package in capital letters within a rectangular box on the principal display panel, improving product clarity.

The DGFT Notification No. 56 dated 04.02.2025 amends the export policy of De-Oiled Rice Bran under Chapter 23 of the ITC(HS) 2022, prohibiting its export until September 30, 2025. This decision modifies the earlier Notification No. 23/2024-25 dated August 16, 2024, which had allowed free export. The restriction applies to various forms of de-oiled rice bran, including oil cake and meal (both expeller and solvent-extracted varieties). The move is likely aimed at ensuring domestic availability for the livestock and feed industry, stabilizing local prices, and addressing concerns related to raw material shortages for animal feed producers.

SEBI has extended the suspension of trading in commodity derivative contracts for paddy (non-basmati), wheat, chana, mustard seeds (and derivatives), soybean (and derivatives), crude palm oil, and moong until March 31, 2025. This follows previous extensions since the initial suspension on December 19, 2021, aimed at stabilizing market conditions. The decision continues SEBI’s efforts to curb speculation, manage price volatility, and ensure market stability in essential commodities.

The Legal Metrology Department has issued an order setting timelines for compliance with amendments in labelling provisions, aimed at improving transparency, regulatory ease, and business efficiency. Under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, amendments will be enforced either on January 1st or July 1st, ensuring a minimum 180-day transition period from notification. In emergencies, enforcement will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

The FSSAI’s new compliance mandate requiring PAN linkage for all FSSAI Licenses and Registrations, effective October 22, 2024, enhances regulatory oversight and transparency in the food sector. The FoSCoS portal now mandates PAN details for all new applications, renewals, and modifications, ensuring better tracking of food business operations. For applicants without a PAN, a declaration form is required. Existing Food Business Operators (FBOs) without imminent renewals or modifications are encouraged to update their PAN details proactively in the FoSCoS user profile to maintain seamless compliance. This measure strengthens financial accountability, reduces fraud, and improves business traceability in the food industry.

The FSSAI advisory, issued in compliance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s order dated May 7, 2024 (WPC No. 645 of 2022 – IMA & Anr. Vs. Union of India & Ors.), aims to curb misleading advertisements and protect consumer interests. It mandates that advertisers and agencies submit a self-declaration certifying compliance with the Advertising Code under the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, with proof provided to relevant media entities. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has introduced new features on the Broadcast Seva Portal (for TV & Radio) and the Press Council of India’s portal (for print, digital, and internet media) to facilitate self-certification before telecasting or publishing ads, operational since June 4, 2024. All Food Business Operators (FBOs) must ensure compliance with these directives to prevent misleading claims and uphold responsible advertising practices.