QR codes on food items: FSSAI issues advisory for accessibility to visually challenged

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory on the inclusion of QR codes on food products for accessibility to the visually challenged. It is to be mentioned here that inclusive access to information is a fundamental right of citizens.

Similarly, it is imperative that food products are also labelled in such a manner that it ensures accessibility to all consumers, including those with visual impairments.

In its latest advisory, the FSSAI has asked the Food Business Operators (FBOs) to incorporate provisions that facilitate easy access to nutritional information for visually impaired individuals.

As per FSSAI, one effective means to achieve this goal is by incorporating the Quick Response (QR) codes on product labels. These QR codes should encompass comprehensive details about the product, including, but not limited to ingredients, nutritional information, allergens, manufacturing date, best before/ expiry/use by date, allergen warning, and contact information for customer inquiries.

“It is pertinent to note that the inclusion of a QR code for the accessibility of information does not replace or negate the requirement to provide mandatory information on the product label, as prescribed by relevant regulations,” FSSAI said.