FSSAI Draft Introduces Standards for Edible Seeds and New Wine Additive

FSSAI has released a draft regulation titled Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Amendment Regulations 2026, introducing formal standards for edible seeds meant for direct human consumption. The rule classifies them into edible vegetable seeds like watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon, pumpkin, and edible oilseeds such as sunflower, sesame, and flaxseed. These seeds may be sold raw, roasted, salted, or coated, but must meet strict purity standards including being clean, free from contamination, and free from rancidity or mould. The draft also sets limits like moisture content up to 8%, free fatty acids not exceeding 1.25%, and foreign matter below 0.1%. In addition, FSSAI has approved potassium polyaspartate (INS 456) for grape wines at a maximum level of 100 mg/kg. The move aims to ensure food safety while supporting both snack and beverage industries with updated regulatory clarity.