Milk-cereal based complementary foods are specially formulated for infants and young children to support their growing nutritional needs. Made from a blend of milk and cereals, these products provide essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that aid in healthy growth and development.
With an appealing texture and taste, these foods are designed for easy digestion and are often fortified with additional nutrients to enhance their dietary value. Milk-cereal based complementary foods play a crucial role in transitioning infants from an exclusive milk diet to a more varied, nutrient-rich diet that promotes balanced nutrition.
Introduction
BIS certification is mandatory for
milk-cereal based complementary foods to ensure they meet the essential quality
and safety requirements outlined in Indian Standard IS 1656. This requirement
is reinforced by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
notification on August 31, 2022, as per the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition
and Restrictions on Sales) First Amendment Regulations, 2022. Manufacturers
must obtain BIS certification to use the ISI Mark on their products before
selling them in the Indian market. This certification helps ensure that all
products meet the health and safety standards necessary for infant and child
consumption.
Why
is BIS Certification Necessary for Milk-Cereal Based Complementary Foods?
BIS certification for milk-cereal based complementary foods is vital for ensuring these products meet strict quality, safety, and nutritional standards, as they are consumed by vulnerable age groups like infants and young children. The certification guarantees that products comply with Indian Standard IS 1656, thereby ensuring they are safe, nutrient-rich, and free from harmful contaminants. In light of FSSAI’s August 2022 amendment mandating BIS certification under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these standards. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, underscoring the government’s commitment to consumer safety and nutritional adequacy for young children.
Overview of Indian Standard IS 1656
Indian Standard IS 1656 specifies
the requirements and quality standards for milk-cereal based complementary
foods. This standard defines parameters for nutritional composition,
microbiological safety, permissible additives, and packaging. Under IS 1656,
these products must undergo regular testing to ensure they provide balanced
nutrition, maintain safety, and meet quality benchmarks necessary for infant
consumption. The FSSAI’s amendment of August 31, 2022, mandates compliance with
IS 1656 as a prerequisite for obtaining BIS certification, reinforcing public
confidence in product safety and quality. This certification standard aims to
protect infant health and ensure that complementary foods align with safety and
nutrition standards in India.
The BIS certification process for
Milk- cereal Based Complementary foods involves multiple steps, designed to
thoroughly evaluate a product's compliance with the required standards. Here is
a general overview of the certification process:
1.Application Submission: Manufacturers must submit an application form along
with required documentation to BIS.
2.Documentation Review: BIS reviews the submitted documents to ensure
completeness and correctness.
3.Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the
manufacturing facility to assess the production process and quality control
measures.
4.Sample Testing: Product samples are taken and tested in BIS-approved
laboratories to verify compliance with Indian standards.
5.Certification Grant: Upon successful completion of the inspection and
testing, BIS grants certification, allowing the manufacturer to use the BIS
mark on their products.
To apply for BIS certification,
manufacturers need to submit the following documents:
● Application
form
● Manufacturing
process details
● Quality
control plan
● Test
reports from BIS-approved laboratories
● Factory
layout and equipment details
● Proof
of business registration
● Product
specifications and technical details
● Declaration of conformity to Indian standards
Additionally, manufacturers may be required to provide proof of compliance with environmental and safety regulations, depending on the specific type of product being certified.
Conclusion
BIS certification for Milk- cereal
Based Complementary foods is essential to ensure adherence to quality and
safety standards as per IS 1656. By complying with the mentioned Quality
control order, certified products provide reliable performance, enhance
consumer safety, and reinforce the credibility of manufacturers in the Indian
market.
Navigating the BIS
certification process can be challenging, especially for small and medium-sized
enterprises. EVTL India is a leading consultancy firm dedicated to assisting
manufacturers in obtaining BIS certification (ISI Mark) efficiently. With
expertise in managing BIS portal submissions, documentation, and regulatory
fees, EVTL India ensures a smooth and successful certification process. By
choosing EVTL India, manufacturers can enhance their product's marketability
both in India and internationally, securing a competitive edge. Additionally,
EVTL India provides ongoing support post-certification, helping manufacturers
maintain compliance with BIS standards and renew their licenses as needed.
📅 BIS Critical Component List (CCL) Updates for Solar PV Modules
🕒 BIS Fee Concessions for MSMEs and Startups | EVTL India
📅 Guidelines for Implementation of Essential Requirements for Security of CCTV
🕒 Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024
🕒 Extension of Timeline for Filing Annual Returns by Battery Producers
📅 Extension of Timeline for Filing Quarterly and Annual Returns for E-Waste
🕒 Extension of Concurrent Running Period for IS 302-1: 2008 and IS 302 (Part 1): 2024