Food safety rules: FSSAI makes rust-free knives and blades compulsory for FBOs

Published 18 June 2026 · india

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in its new advisory on 15 June, asked food business operators (FBOs) to use only food-grade

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in its new advisory on 15 June, asked food business operators (FBOs) to use only food-grade, corrosion-resistant knives, blades and other cutting tools in food processing and handling activities. The regulator also emphasised that all such equipment must be kept in good condition and maintained according to hygiene standards to prevent contamination. FSSAI has directed state food safety commissioners to closely monitor compliance and ensure strict vigilance regarding the use and maintenance of food-contact equipment. “It has been brought to the notice of FSSAI that certain food businesses are using rusted, corroded, chipped, painted, damaged or otherwise unsuitable knives, blades and other cutting equipments during food handling, preparation, processing, cutting, slicing and packaging operations,” it stated. FSSAI noted that existing regulations require all equipment, utensils and food-contact surfaces used during food handling, preparation, processing, packaging and storage to be made from food-grade, non-toxic and corrosion-resistant materials, adding that these items must also be kept in hygienic condition to minimise the risk of food contamination.

It stressed that the rules mandate regular cleaning and disinfection of such equipment and utensils at appropriate intervals to ensure food safety standards are maintained. “The use of rusted, corroded, chipped, painted, damaged, inadequately cleaned or non-food-grade knives, blades and cutting equipments may result in physical, chemical and microbiological contamination of food and is not in conformity with the sanitary and hygienic requirements,” FSSAI said. It warned that food business operators who fail to comply with the requirements could face regulatory action. The authority has also instructed state food safety commissioners to closely monitor adherence to the norms during inspections and ensure strict enforcement. Also Read | FSSAI pulls up IRCTC over shocking video of utensils being washed in toilet The advisory further stated that appropriate action may be taken against violators under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, if any instances of non-compliance are detected.

Stop using metallic pins, wires in packaging: FSSAI to FBOs FSSAI on 12 June directed all FBOs to immediately discontinue the use of metallic pins and wires in the packaging of food products and parcels, citing potential health risks to consumers. In an advisory issued to safeguard public health and food safety, the FSSAI cautioned that non-compliance with the directive could attract penal action. Also Read | Rival complaint—FSSAI notice to The Whole Truth on sugar claims According to the regulator, it has observed that metallic or staple pins and wires are being used by FBOs in decorative cakes and similar products, as well as for securing food packets, cake boxes, sweet boxes, snack pouches, takeaway meals and other food packaging. FSSAI noted that multiple cases have been reported in which metallic or staple pins were found embedded in or attached to cakes and packaged food items.