In a significant move aimed at strengthening consumer safety and food hygiene standards, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has prohibited the use of staple pins, metal wires, and similar metallic objects in food packaging across the country.
The directive applies to hotels, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops, and all food business operators involved in packing and selling food products.
According to FSSAI, instances have been reported where staple pins and metal wires were used to seal cake boxes, sweet packets, snack packages, and takeaway food parcels. In several cases, these metallic objects were found mixed with food items, posing a serious risk to consumers.
The authority noted that staple pins are particularly dangerous because of their small size and can accidentally enter food while opening packages. If ingested, they can cause serious injuries to the mouth, throat, and digestive system.
FSSAI has warned that food business operators found violating the new directive may face legal and penal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The regulator has urged businesses to immediately adopt safer alternative packaging methods to ensure food safety and prevent accidental contamination.
This is not the first such measure taken by the food safety authority. Earlier, FSSAI had advised food vendors against using newspapers for wrapping or serving food, citing concerns that printing ink and harmful chemicals could contaminate food and adversely affect human health.
The latest directive is part of FSSAI’s ongoing efforts to enhance food safety standards and protect consumers from preventable health hazards. Industry stakeholders are now expected to modify their packaging practices to comply with the revised safety guidelines.
Officials said the decision reflects the regulator’s commitment to ensuring that food reaches consumers in a safe and contamination-free manner.
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