New Laboratory Designation in Hyderabad
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has designated the Analytical Testing Laboratory at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Balanagar, Hyderabad, as a facility for testing sports nutrition products. This laboratory will focus on detecting prohibited substances listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in food products meant for sportspersons.
Second Lab for Enhanced Testing
This addition complements the existing Centre of Excellence for Research and Analysis of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (CERANS), making it the second laboratory approved for testing such products. These facilities ensure that food for sportspersons complies with safety and anti-doping standards.
Regulations on Prohibited Substances
Under the FSS (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Food for Special Dietary Use, Food for Special Medical Purposes, Functional Food, and Novel Food) Regulations, 2016, food products for sportspersons must not contain any substances prohibited by WADA. Food business operators are required to consult WADA’s annual list of banned substances, which is updated every January, to ensure compliance.
Laboratory Accreditation and Scope
The NIPER laboratory has been accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) under the category of “Chemical-Nutritional Supplement.” This allows it to test for prohibited substances as defined by WADA, ensuring reliable and standardized analysis.
Instructions for Enforcement Authorities
FSSAI has directed enforcement authorities to utilize the newly designated lab for testing sports nutrition products licensed by FSSAI. This move strengthens regulatory oversight, ensuring that sportspersons have access to safe and compliant food products.
