New Delhi: The FSSAI animal feed regulation ruling has brought major clarity to India’s food safety framework. In a significant judgment, the Delhi High Court ruled that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) does not have the legal power to regulate animal feed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The court emphasized that the law is strictly meant for food meant for human consumption, not animal feed. This decision is expected to impact regulatory practices and the feed industry across India.
Details of FSSAI Animal Feed Regulation Ruling
The Delhi High Court clearly stated that the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 is limited in scope. It applies only to food products that are meant for humans.
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The court observed that:
- Animal feed does not fall under the definition of “food” as per the Act.
- Therefore, FSSAI cannot extend its regulatory powers to include animal feed.
- Any such attempt would go beyond the legal framework defined by Parliament.
This interpretation reinforces the principle that regulatory bodies must act strictly within their legal boundaries.
What the Law Actually Says
According to official provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act:
- “Food” is defined as any substance intended for human consumption.
- The Act does not include feed for animals within this definition.
The court highlighted that expanding this definition would require legislative changes, not administrative action.
Impact of FSSAI Animal Feed Regulation Ruling
This ruling restricts the authority of FSSAI in a significant way:
- FSSAI cannot issue regulations or guidelines for animal feed.
- Any previous attempts to regulate this sector under food laws may not hold legal validity.
The judgment reinforces that FSSAI’s role is limited to ensuring the safety and quality of food consumed by humans.
Implications for the Animal Feed Industry
The decision is important for stakeholders in the animal feed sector:
- Companies dealing in animal feed may no longer need to comply with FSSAI regulations for such products.
- Regulatory oversight may shift to other authorities or require a separate legal framework.
- It may reduce compliance burden for feed manufacturers.
However, it also raises the need for a clear regulatory body to ensure safety standards in animal feed.
