How Crucial is BIS License for PDW and MW Manufacturers?

It has been observed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) that numerous manufacturers of packaged drinking water are in operation with FSSAI but they do not have a BIS certification mark. In order to sell packaged drinking water and mineral water, a BIS number is very important for the product. Obtrusively, packaged drinking water and mineral water is being sold without BIS certification in the scorching summer heat.

- Dr Saurabh Arora

In a recent regulation, FSSAI has drawn reference to its previous order dated 26.03.2021 which directed that FBOs can upload BIS license or copy of letter indicating recording of application for BIS license on FOSCOS portal at the time of applying for new license/or PDW and MW from FSSAI.

The food regulator has asked food commissioners of states and union territories to review the licenses granted to bottlers. In such a scenario, it is important to conduct a special drive to ensure (if) all manufacturers of PDW and mineral water have BIS number or not, and no laxity should be tolerated. It has been requested to review the licenses granted for manufacturing of packaged drinking water and mineral water products and verify whether the said licenses have furnished the valid BIS certificate for the same through the FOSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. In case such certificates are not available, notice may be issued to the Food Business Operators (FBOS) to furnish the same in the time-bound manner.

SIGNIFICANCE OF BIS

• To sell packaged drinking water and mineral water, a BIS number is very important for the product. If FBOs could not show the BIS certificate on time their licenses will be canceled as per FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Business Regulation, 2011).