FSSAI has extended the implementation of the labelling provisions for the products covered under the frozen dessert or confection category. The decision was taken by the apex food regulator, as the matter related to the nomenclature of frozen dessert was under review.

The regulator’s order stated that representations have been received from a section of stakeholders requesting for further extension of time for compliance of Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) 13th Amendment Regulations of 2017 related to frozen dessert, as the issue of nomenclature was still under review in FSSAI.

And there would be a stay on the these regulations until a final outcome was reached through review.

“After due consideration of the fact that the issue of nomenclature of frozen dessert is still under review in FSSAI, it has been decided to further extend the timeline for compliance of the labelling requirement for frozen desserts or confections with added vegetable oil/fat and/or vegetable protein as per Clause 6(c) of Sub-regulation 2.1.15 of the amended regulation till the final decision of FSSAI on the nomenclature of frozen dessert,” the order read.

The order added that however the food business operators are required to comply with all other standards/labelling provisions specified for the said products under these regulations.

It is pertinent to mention here that the ice cream manufacturers have raised objections on the nomenclature frozen dessert and have sent a petition to FSSAI for a review. The regulator has decided to constitute an expert group to further review of the subject.

Meanwhile, the timeline for compliance of these regulations was given till January 1, 2019. It got extended to July 1, 2019, and the current deadline ended on January 1, 2020.