Nepal has banned the import, sale and distribution of Priyagold biscuits manufactured by India-based Surya Food and Agro Ltd following serious food safety concerns raised by Indian authorities. The decision was taken by Nepal’s Food Technology and Quality Control Department (FTQCD), which classified the biscuits as substandard and directed traders to stop their sale in the country.
FSSAI Flags Serious Hygiene and Manufacturing Deficiencies
The action follows an inspection by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which reportedly identified serious deficiencies in food safety and hygiene at Surya Food and Agro Ltd. The Indian regulator has suspended the manufacturer’s licence and initiated prosecution proceedings against the company.
According to the reported findings, FSSAI also initiated legal proceedings over the alleged use of cattle feed bran in the manufacture of Priyagold biscuits, alongside other serious violations. These findings raised concerns about the company’s manufacturing practices and compliance with food safety requirements.
Nepal Orders Immediate Market Restrictions
Following the action taken by Indian authorities, Nepal’s FTQCD issued a notice prohibiting Priyagold biscuits from entering or being sold in the country. The decision was made during an emergency virtual meeting convened at the initiative of the department’s Director General, Sanjeev Kumar Karna.
The department stated that the restrictions were imposed to protect public health and safeguard consumer welfare.
Traders Directed to Recall Existing Stocks
As part of the enforcement measures, the FTQCD has instructed relevant authorities, traders and consumers to refrain from importing Priyagold biscuits and to ensure that their sale and distribution are discontinued.
Authorised importers and food traders have also been directed to immediately recall any remaining stocks available in the market.
Food Safety Compliance Under Scrutiny
The development highlights the importance of strict hygiene controls, safe ingredient sourcing and regulatory compliance in food manufacturing. It also demonstrates how food safety concerns identified in one country can lead to restrictions in another, particularly when consumer health is at stake.
Food manufacturers must ensure that their production processes, raw materials and quality control systems comply with applicable food safety standards to protect consumers and maintain confidence in their products.
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