New rules for food importers

19 May 2011 10:35 am Views - 4282

Food importers, under new regulations to be implemented, must ensure that imports reach Sri Lanka prior to the expiration of a minimum of 60% of time before the expiry date, the ministry of health said today.

A circular issued to this effect by the ministry under the Food Act of 1980 and the regulations will be effective from August 1st.

Health Minister Maitripala Sirisena has instructed officials to adhere to the new regulations to the letter as it was revealed that certain food items reach Colombo port only a few days before the expiry date and within a few days become unfit for human consumption, a Ministry spokesman said.

A survey conducted by the Food Consultative Committee of the health ministry has found that many traders sell food items even after the expiry date, Ministry spokesman W.M.D.Wanninayaka said.

“Traders are reluctant to discard food items that had passed the expiry date. This happens as traders import foods at the last moment not considering the time taken for loading, sea voyage and unloading which means only a few days remain to the expiry date when the food item reaches the market shelves,” Mr. Wanninayaka said. (Sandun A Jayasekera)