FinMin warns of action against importing pizza containing beef

Concerned over import of eatables containing beef, the finance ministry has warned of strict action against those who are involved in the import of ‘Gummy Pizza’ from China and Indonesia.

“Suitable legal action would be warranted in case any violation is noticed, including in the reported cases of import of Gummy Pizza, said to contain beef. Any deviation in this regard shall be viewed seriously,” Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) said in a note. According to the law, import of beef in any form and import of products containing beef in any form is prohibited. All consignment of edible products, imported in consumer packs, should carry a declaration on the label of the package that the product does not contain beef in any form, it said.

However, the CBEC added, instances have been brought to the notice of the Board that despite the prohibition, Gummy Pizza, which is reportedly containing beef, is imported in large quantities from China and Indonesia. “Board has taken note of this and desires that import policy in this regard should be scrupulously implemented by the field formations,” it said.

The CBEC further said that suitable instructions may be issued for strict compliance, adding, “cases if any, of such imports in the past may be thoroughly investigated and reported with all details to the board.”