Food Safety (Regulatory Compliances)
Navigating Regulatory Compliances of Food Businesses
Corpolit & Co. LLP offers specialized legal services in Food Safety, guiding food businesses, manufacturers, distributors and importers through the intricate regulatory framework in India. We understand the paramount importance of ensuring public health through safe and wholesome food, as mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act) and the regulations framed thereunder by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Our team provides proactive advisory and strategic representation to help clients achieve and maintain full compliance and mitigate risks.
Comprehensive Food Safety Compliance Services
Corpolit & Co. LLP possesses deep expertise in various aspects of food safety law, offering tailored solutions to address the unique challenges faced by the food industry. Our capabilities encompass:
- FSSAI Licensing & Registration:
- Assisting food business operators (FBOs) in obtaining and renewing mandatory FSSAI licenses (Central, State and Basic) and registrations based on their turnover and nature of business (e.g., manufacturers, processors, repackers, distributors, retailers, importers, caterers, e-commerce food businesses).
- Guidance on the documentation and procedural requirements for various types of FSSAI licenses and registrations.
- Regulatory Compliance & Standards:
- Advising on compliance with FSSAI regulations pertaining to food product standards, food additives, contaminants, toxins, residues and packaging and labeling requirements.
- Providing legal opinions on permissible limits, prohibited substances and specific regulatory requirements for various food categories.
- Assisting in adhering to hygiene and sanitation requirements, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHPs) as prescribed by FSSAI.
- Product Approval & Endorsements:
- Advising on the process for approval of novel foods, nutraceuticals, health supplements and proprietary foods.
- Assisting in obtaining product endorsements and approvals from FSSAI for specific claims or ingredients.
- Food Recall Procedures & Incident Management:
- Developing and advising on robust food recall plans and procedures in compliance with FSSAI regulations.
- Providing legal counsel in the event of food safety incidents, contamination, or product non-compliance, including liaison with FSSAI authorities.
- Advertisement & Claims Compliance:
- Advising on compliance with regulations concerning misleading advertisements and unsubstantiated claims related to food products.
- Reviewing marketing materials, labels and promotional content to ensure adherence to FSSAI advertising codes.
Litigation & Enforcement Before Food Safety Authorities
Our firm provides experienced representation in food safety-related disputes and enforcement actions, safeguarding our clients' interests across various forums. Our services include:
- Representing FBOs in response to show-cause notices, improvement notices and prohibition orders issued by Food Safety Officers and Designated Officers.
- Handling appeals against orders of Food Safety Officers before Adjudicating Officers for imposition of penalties.
- Appearing before the Food Safety Appellate Tribunal (if established at State level) or other designated appellate authorities for challenges against orders.
- Defending clients in criminal proceedings initiated by Food Safety Departments for non-compliance, adulteration, or unsafe food practices before Magistrate Courts.
- Advising on compensation claims in cases of injury or death to consumers due to unsafe food.
Your Trusted Partner for Food Safety Excellence
At Corpolit & Co. LLP, we understand that strict adherence to food safety standards is paramount for consumer trust and business sustainability in the food industry. Our team is committed to providing clear, practical advice and strategic representation, empowering clients to navigate the complexities of food regulations, obtain necessary approvals and effectively manage enforcement challenges. We focus on proactive compliance, ensuring your food business operations are safe, legal and reputable.
