FSSAI extends the time limit for replacing whole wheat with wheat flour

FSSAI has extended the time limit it has accorded to FBOs for replacing the nomenclature “Whole whea…

FSSAI has extended the time limit it has accorded to FBOs for replacing the nomenclature “Whole wheat flour (Atta)” with “Wheat flour (Atta)” in compliance to its order dated April 30, 2019, effecting the change.

This order by the apex food regulator was subsequent to its earlier direction dated February 1, 2019, which asked FBOs to mention “Whole wheat flour (Atta)” on packaging of food products wherever the same is used singly or as an ingredient.

The direction was issued under Section 16(5) of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, regarding the usage of Wheat flour (Atta) and Refined wheat flour (Maida) on labels of food products.

The time extension is being accorded as the two notifications dated April 30 and February 1, have created confusion amongst FBOs and it has been reported that many FBOs got packaging materials printed in accordance to the February notification indicating nomenclature “Whole wheat flour (Atta).”

Considering the representation received in this regard, it has been decided that all FBOs shall be permitted to use the packaging labels with nomenclature “Whole wheat flour (Atta)” upto December 31, 2019, according to a statement by FSSAI.

“The difference between atta and maida is significant, especially when it comes to food companies making health claims about the wheat component in products,” stated Suresh Deshmukh, Joint Commissioner, FDA Pune.

Any further extension in this regard will depend on case to case basis.