Food sample analysis gets fixed timelines and testing methods

India's Food Safety and Standards (Laboratory and Sample Analysis) Regulations, 2011 have been amended to prescribe a 14 day timeline for regulatory sample reports and five days for import samples. Laboratories must use FSSAI-prescribed methods, and where none exists, may use validated methods recognised by specified international bodies. The amendment takes effect on 1 April 2027. The amendment makes both the testing methodology and timelines more structured, giving food businesses a clearer framework for challenging delays or departures from prescribed analytical methods.