FSSAI suspends 13 labs for non-compliance
The food laboratories didn’t upload the regulatory food samples tested there on the official INFoLNET websie
image for illustrative purpose
INFoLNET is an IT-based system for a centralized system called the lab management system (LMS), from the collection of samples till the test report is generated by the food analyst
New Delhi: The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended 13 food laboratories for six months for not uploading the regulatory food samples tested there on https://infolnet.fssai.gov.in. INFoLNET stands for Indian Food Laboratory Network.
The FSSAI directed food laboratories on July 14 that they must upload all food samples tested on the INFoLNET website. Reminders were sent on August 29, September 10, October 20, and November 11. All the laboratories were warned that strict action would be taken against them, which may lead to their suspension or de-notification.
Thirteen food laboratories did not comply with the directive, official sources told Bizz Buzz, adding that FSSAI may revoke the suspension if it is satisfied that the faltering laboratories have become compliant.
INFoLNET is an IT-based system for a centralized system called the lab management system (LMS), from the collection of samples till the test report is generated by the food analyst. It also links the lab management module with other micro-modules like the Food Licensing & Registration System (FLRS), the Food Imports Clearance System (FICS), surveillance, and risk.
All the food labs get connected through INFoLNET either by the laboratory information management system (LIMS) available with the lab or the lab management module (if LIMS is not available with the lab), sources said.
INFoLNET will have a network of labs connected to the LMS. Based on the information collected, all national labs can be further categorized based on regulatory purpose, availability of testing facility, ownership of laboratory, basis of accreditation/approval, geographical location, government support, and mobile labs.
The LMS will act as a backbone of the network, which will also be integrated to other FSSAI core IT systems, such as, FLRS, FICS (for import clearance), quick access, etc. The centralized information can be used for risk analysis, enriching standards, and training & capacity building.
