No Fruits and Vegetables Import from EU without FSSAI Clearance on E.Colli Infection

[CBEC Instruction F.No. 450/60/2011-Cus. IV dated 8^th June, 2011]

Subject: Monitoring of fresh Fruit and Vegetable Import from Europe for E.Colli bacterial contamination

Following the recent detection of many cases of E.Colli bacterial outbreak due to contamination of fresh Fruits and Vegetables in European countries like Germany, Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia and the U.K, there is a need to increase surveillance of fresh Fruit and Vegetable imports into India from Europe to ensure that they are safe for consumption.

2. Accordingly, it has been decided, as precautionary measure, that Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) would test samples of fresh Fruits and Vegetables consignments imported from Europe into India for E.Colli bacteria. FSSAI has directed their Authorised Officers to have the food articles tested for E.Colli bacterial contamination before issuing ‘No Objection Certificate’ to Customs.

3. In view of the above, it is directed that all officers in charge of Ports, Airports, ICDs / CFSs, Land Customs Stations should ensure that clearance of such fresh Fruits and Vegetables imported from Europe is allowed only after complying with the above requirements and obtaining ‘No Objection Certificate’ from FSSAI.

4. A suitable Public Notice and Standing Order may be issued for the guidance of the trade and staff.

5. Difficulties faced, if any, in implementation of these instructions may please be brought to the notice of the Board.