FSSAI drafting organic food norms

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is drawing up guidelines to regulate organic food.

The size of the organic food (grains and pulses) market in the country is around Rs 3,350 crore and industry estimates suggest the market is growing 30 per cent a year.

Organic food exporters are now required to obtain approval from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. There are no guidelines for domestic players.

The draft will propose setting up of a committee to suggest changes in the certification method being followed now.

The FSSAI is also planning to ensure more disclosures about food.

The regulator is also trying to rope in restaurants to offer healthier food choices to patrons. Restaurants may be required to list ingredients used and calorie counts. The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India is working with the FSSAI on this initiative.