FSSAI directs all Food Business Operators to ensure strict compliance in respect of use of food-grade and corrosion-resistant knives, blades, and other equipment

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (“FSSAI”) has issued an advisory directing all Food Business Operators (“FBOs”) to ensure strict compliance in respect of use of food-grade and corrosion-resistant knives, blades, and other equipment. Any non-compliance observed will attract action under the Food safety and Standards Act, 2006 and regulations made under it. All FBOs are directed to ensure strict compliance in respect of the following:

1. Only food-grade, corrosion-resistant knives, blades and cutting equipment must be used in food handling and processing operations.
2. Knives, blades and cutting equipment used must be maintained in a sound and hygienic condition and are free from rust, corrosion, chipping, paint, cracks, breakage or any other defect that may contaminate food.
3. Rusted, corroded, chipped, damaged or otherwise unsuitable knives, blades and cutting equipment must be immediately removed from use and must be replaced.
4. Ensure that adequate cleaning, sanitisation and sterilisation procedures are adhered to in respect of knives, blades and cutting equipment, at prescribed intervals.

Source: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India