Kolkata, September 25, 2026: The All India Food Processors’ Association (AIFPA) organised a national conference on “Food Safety Infrastructure 4.0: Harmonising Global Standards, Testing Capacity & Trade Facilitation” at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the evolving food safety landscape and its impact on India’s food processing and export sectors.
Supported by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), the conference brought together policymakers, food safety regulators, industry leaders, exporters, laboratories, certification and inspection bodies, academia, research institutions and technology providers.
Pesticide Residue Limits and Export Challenges in Focus
A key area of discussion was the difference between Indian food safety requirements and regulations followed in international markets, particularly Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides. Participants discussed how variations in regulatory requirements can lead to additional testing, higher compliance costs and challenges for Indian exporters seeking access to global markets.
The conference explored the need for greater regulatory harmonisation, science-based standards, stronger testing capacity and closer engagement with international regulatory developments, while keeping consumer safety at the centre.
AI, Blockchain and Digital Traceability Take Centre Stage
The concept of Food Safety Infrastructure 4.0 goes beyond conventional testing and inspection systems. Discussions focused on building an integrated ecosystem using Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, digital traceability, data-driven compliance and risk-based inspections.
Participants also highlighted the importance of strengthening food testing laboratories, accreditation systems, proficiency testing, quality assurance and conformity assessment infrastructure to improve the reliability and global acceptance of Indian food products.
AIFPA to Develop Actionable Recommendations
The conference brought together representatives from MoFPI, FSSAI, APEDA, EIC, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, State Food Safety Departments, NABL, QCI, food processing companies, exporters, laboratories and other technical stakeholders.
The deliberations focused on strengthening India’s food safety infrastructure, reducing technical barriers to trade, improving digital traceability and preparing Indian businesses for evolving international food safety regulations.
AIFPA plans to develop a comprehensive set of recommendations based on the conference discussions and submit them to relevant government ministries, regulatory authorities and stakeholders, including MoFPI, FSSAI, APEDA, EIC and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
Established in 1943, AIFPA is a national apex association representing the food processing industry and allied sectors, providing a platform for dialogue between industry, government, regulators, academia and technical stakeholders.
