FSSAI Mandates Scientific Proof for Food Safety Reviews from Jan 2026

• FSSAI will require scientific evidence for food safety reviews and standard changes starting January 1, 2026.
• The new rule mandates a standardized format for submissions, including nutritional data, consumption levels, toxicological findings, and allergy risks, specific to Indian consumers.
• This move aims to tighten oversight of packaged and processed foods and bring greater rigour to safety decisions.
• The burden of proof shifts to applicants seeking to introduce new products or review existing ones; existing products are not automatically reassessed.
• Experts like Anjali Bhola from National Cancer Institute, Jhajjar, laud the step for protecting public health by focusing on Indian dietary patterns.

Why It Matters: FSSAI tightens food safety, requiring scientific proof for product reviews from 2026, prioritizing Indian health.