Stricter Rules for 10-Minute Delivery Apps; Compliance Required by September 30

If you order food or beverages using 10-minute delivery apps, this news is important for you. The FSSAI is preparing to enforce stricter regulations regarding information about food products sold online.

A significant change is coming for those who order food and beverages from the comfort of their homes. If you purchase packaged food via 10-minute delivery apps, you will soon be able to view essential product details before placing your order. The FSSAI has set a deadline of September 30, 2026, for quick-delivery and e-commerce platforms to comply with these requirements.

Speaking to NDTV Profit, FSSAI CEO Rajit Punhani stated that preparations are underway to tighten regulations for e-commerce and quick-delivery platforms. He emphasized that the online sale of spoiled or expired food products will not be permitted.

Under the new rules, customers must be able to see the information provided on the package—including the expiry date—before purchasing any food item. This means customers will know the product’s shelf life before placing an order.

Online Sales to be Monitored

The FSSAI states that food products sold online will undergo the same level of scrutiny as those sold in physical stores. Monitoring of food labeling is also being intensified, as rising consumer awareness has led to greater scrutiny of product information. Companies must ensure that the information on their product labels is accurate and correctly reflects the true details of the food item.

Platforms Cannot Evade Responsibility

Rajit Punhani stated that online platforms cannot escape liability simply by labeling themselves as aggregators. They will be held accountable for the food products listed and sold on their websites or apps.

In recent months, the FSSAI has stepped up its oversight of food and beverage companies. According to the FSSAI, over 150 notices have been issued to major companies for violations related to misleading advertisements, incorrect information, and product labeling.

Over 33,000 cases in a year

In the past year, the FSSAI registered approximately 33,000 cases and imposed fines totaling more than ₹1 crore. Addressing concerns about the fines being low, Punhani stated that even a small fine can impact a brand. He added that the high volume of enforcement actions demonstrates the effectiveness of the FSSAI’s regulatory measures.