FSSAI asks food operators to maintain cold chain for perishable products

Perishable food items like khoa, paneer, meat and fish should be transported at controlled temperatures, FSSAI directed. File

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

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

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

Food business operators must ensure strict adherence to hygiene and temperature standards, he added.

FSSAI said it has laid down hygiene and sanitation requirements for food business operators under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

“It has been brought to FSSAI’s attention that perishable food commodities like khoa, paneer, meat, fish etc. are sometimes not handled, stored or transported under proper temperature conditions,” the advisory said.

Due to their perishable nature, these foods are highly susceptible to microbial growth and spoilage if they are not maintained under appropriate temperature conditions.

Under the conditions set out in the licences, food business operators are obliged to maintain the prescribed temperature throughout the supply chain, from purchase/supply to delivery to the final consumer.

“Exposing these foods to temperature abuse may adversely affect public health and constitute a failure to comply with hygiene and sanitation requirements,” the advisory said.

The regulator asked food business operators to transport only in clean, covered and hygienic vehicles or means of transport suitable for transporting food.

Food business operators were also told to use only food 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 the FBO.

Food business operators were further told to maintain appropriate records and traceability of consignments.

The regulator also advised state-level food safety commissioners, Indian Railways and regional directors of FSSAI to direct the concerned licensing authorities and food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance during inspections and transport checks to ensure compliance with the law.

In case of non-compliance, they can initiate appropriate measures, including confiscation and destruction of food.

Published – 18 Oct 2026 22:43 IST