FSSAI Directs Food Businesses to Stop Using Newspapers for Food Packaging

FSSAI Directs Food Businesses to Stop Using Newspapers for Food Packaging

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all food business operators across the country to immediately discontinue the use of newspapers for packing, wrapping or serving food, citing potential health risks associated with the practice.

The advisory was issued after a vada pav vendor was reportedly found using newspapers to package food items. Following the incident, FSSAI and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated action against the vendor and stepped up awareness campaigns on safe food packaging practices.

According to FSSAI, newspaper ink contains harmful substances such as lead, heavy metals and chemical pigments that can transfer to food through direct contact. Regular consumption of food contaminated by such chemicals may lead to serious health issues over time.

The food safety regulator also noted that newspapers are often handled, transported and stored in unhygienic conditions, increasing the risk of contamination and foodborne illnesses.

Reiterating the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, FSSAI stated that newspapers, recycled paper and other non-approved materials are strictly prohibited for storing, wrapping or serving food.

The authority has advised street food vendors, restaurants, caterers, cloud kitchens and other food businesses to use only approved food-grade packaging materials. Consumers have also been urged to remain cautious and avoid purchasing food items wrapped in newspapers.