FSSAI asks food operators to maintain cold chain for perishables

Food regulator FSSAI has asked food business operators (FBOs) to transport perishable items under controlled-temperature conditions across the supply chain to safeguard public health.

In a social media post on Sunday (October 18, 2026), FSSAI said it has issued an advisory on “handling, storage, and transportation of perishable foods like khoa, paneer, meat, and fish under controlled temperature conditions throughout the supply chain”.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has also asked State food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance and take action if rules are not followed.

FBOs must ensure strict adherence to hygiene and temperature standards, it added.

FSSAI mentioned that it has specified hygienic and sanitary requirements for FBOs under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

"It has been brought to the notice of FSSAI that perishable food commodities such as khoa, paneer, meat, fish, etc., are at times not handled, stored or transported under appropriate temperature conditions," the advisory noted.

Because of their perishable nature, these food items are highly susceptible to microbial growth and spoilage if not maintained under appropriate temperature conditions.

As per the conditions laid out under licenses, FBOs are required to maintain the prescribed temperature throughout the supply chain, from procurement/sourcing to delivery to the end consumer.

"Subjecting these food products to temperature abuse may adversely affect public health and constitute non-compliance with the hygiene and sanitary requirements," the advisory said.

The regulator has asked FBOs to transport only in clean, covered, and hygienic vehicles or conveyances suitable for food transportation.

FBOs have also been told to use only food-grade packaging and suitable secondary packaging materials.

"Protect the product from dust, moisture, pests, physical damage and cross- contamination during storage, loading, unloading and transportation," FSSAI told FBOs.

Further, FBOs have been told to maintain appropriate records and traceability of consignments.

The regulator has also advised the commissioners of food safety at the state level, Indian Railways and Regional Directors of FSSAI to direct the concerned licensing authorities and food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance during inspections and transportation checks to ensure compliance with the law.

In case of non-compliance, they can initiate appropriate action, including seizure and destruction of the food items.