Chapter V - Provisions Relating to Import
Section 25
Section 25: All imports of articles of food to be subject to this Act
Food imports must comply with the Act, relevant licence conditions and other applicable laws.
On this page
Need advice on Section 25?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
No person shall import into India– (i) any unsafe or misbranded or sub-standard food or food containing extraneous matter; (ii) any article of food for the import of which a licence is required under any Act or rules or regulations, except in accordance with the conditions of the licence; and (iii) any article of food in contravention of any other provision of this Act or of any rule or regulation made thereunder or any other Act.
(2) The Central Government shall, while prohibiting, restricting or otherwise regulating import of article of food under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 (22 of 1992), follow the standards laid down by the Food Authority under the provisions of this Act and the Rules and regulations made thereunder.
Key takeaways
Core rule
Food imports must comply with the Act, relevant licence conditions and other applicable laws.
Practical check
Check product classification, import permissions, applicable standards and the particular prohibition or restriction made by the Central Government.
Scope and operation
The section bars imports of unsafe, misbranded or sub-standard food and food with extraneous matter. It also covers licence breaches and other contraventions.
Applying the section
Check product classification, import permissions, applicable standards and the particular prohibition or restriction made by the Central Government.
Official sources
Read the consolidated Act with the enacted and commenced amendments applicable to this section.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026