FSSAI revokes prohibition order against Enrica products

What Happened

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) revoked a prohibitory order targeting 11 liquor varieties manufactured by Enrica Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. The initial prohibition had followed an FSSAI inspection that flagged the use of natural identical and artificial flavouring substances in the products. A subsequent communication indicated the restriction was lifted after the company appealed and promised compliance within 30 days. An improvement notice was then issued, detailing ongoing obligations, including adherence to labeling rules and good manufacturing and hygiene practices under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Act. The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) had earlier directed shops to halt procurement and sale of the affected products, but the ban was lifted in tandem with the revocation notice. Existing stock was deemed safe for consumption at the time of revocation, and authorities planned further inspections at other distilleries in the state in the coming weeks.

Why It Matters

The episode highlights how regulatory action can be reversed when manufacturers contest prohibitions and pledge compliance, while authorities maintain oversight through an improvement mechanism. The case also underscores the role of state distributors in enforcing central safety rulings and the potential for ongoing monitoring and inspections to ensure adherence to safety and labeling standards.

Background

FSSAI initially issued a prohibitory order after an inspection found artificial flavoring substances in Enrica’s liquor varieties. The order led to a procurement and retail ban through Tamil Nadu’s state distributor network. The subsequent revocation followed an appeal by the company and a commitment to comply within a 30-day window. An improvement notice remains valid for 30 days, during which the distiller must submit a compliance report.

Key Facts

• 11 liquor varieties manufactured by Enrica Enterprises Pvt. Ltd were initially banned by FSSAI following an inspection.
• The varieties include multiple Enrica-branded brandies and a rum, with the list reported by sources as part of the August actions.
• The ban was revoked the day after the company appealed and promised compliance within 30 days.
• An improvement notice was issued, requiring compliance with labeling, good manufacturing practices, and good hygiene practices under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
• Existing stock of the affected varieties was deemed safe for consumption at the time of revocation.
• Tasmac had halted procurement and sale of the products, with a potential re-evaluation pending after the revocation.

What Happens Next

The company has 30 days to submit a compliance report detailing actions taken to meet the stated requirements. Authorities indicated they will conduct further inspections of other liquor manufacturing units in the state in the weeks ahead, and could take additional action if non-compliance is observed.