FSSAI for fixing limits of melamine in milk, milk products

To check adulteration, food safety regulator FSSAI has proposed for the first time fixing of maximum permissible limit of melamine content in milk and related products.
Currently, there is a ceiling on presence of insecticides and metal contaminants in milk and milk products, while FSSAI has now proposed that limits should be fixed for melamine amid concerns of presence of such chemical in various milk products.
In a notification, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed imposing a permissible limit of 1 mg of melamine in every kg of powdered infant formula, 0.15 mg per kg in liquid infant formula and 2.5 mg per kg in other foods.

The regulator has sought public comments on these proposals by September 6.
Melamine is largely used in plastic and fertiliser industry.
The government recently banned import of Chinese milk and milk products for one year till June 2016 due to presence of this particular chemical.

In another notification, the FSSAI said it has proposed that food companies should mention source of edible vegetable oil or fat on the label of packaged food items for the benefit of consumers.
Public comments have also been sought on this proposal.
The regulator has stepped surveillance on processed food items after the Maggi controversy. It is reviewing safety standards and holding several consultations with stakeholders to strengthen them.