📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / G3gpal
Food
Kerala Concerns Rise Over New FSSAI Rule Impacting Puffy Pappadam
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 13 Sep 2026, 05:03 AM
👁 10
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s latest regulation has sparked worry in Kerala over its effect on the popular puffed pappadam snack.
New guidelines issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have placed the traditional puffed pappadam under stricter regulatory scrutiny. The draft rule, released this month, reclassifies the snack as a processed food item that must comply with enhanced safety and labeling standards.
Industry observers note that the change could require manufacturers to adopt new production processes, update ingredient disclosures, and obtain additional certifications. While the intent is to improve consumer safety, the specific requirements have not yet been fully detailed, leaving many producers uncertain about compliance pathways.
Kerala’s pappadam makers and trade bodies have voiced apprehension, fearing that the added compliance burden may increase production costs and affect the affordability of the snack, which is a staple across the state. Representatives have called for a clear timeline and possible exemptions for small‑scale artisans who rely on traditional methods.
If the rule is enforced as drafted, consumers could see higher prices or reduced availability of puffed pappadam in local markets. The FSSAI has indicated that it will seek stakeholder feedback before finalising the regulation, but the immediate reaction in Kerala remains one of caution and concern.
Industry observers note that the change could require manufacturers to adopt new production processes, update ingredient disclosures, and obtain additional certifications. While the intent is to improve consumer safety, the specific requirements have not yet been fully detailed, leaving many producers uncertain about compliance pathways.
Kerala’s pappadam makers and trade bodies have voiced apprehension, fearing that the added compliance burden may increase production costs and affect the affordability of the snack, which is a staple across the state. Representatives have called for a clear timeline and possible exemptions for small‑scale artisans who rely on traditional methods.
If the rule is enforced as drafted, consumers could see higher prices or reduced availability of puffed pappadam in local markets. The FSSAI has indicated that it will seek stakeholder feedback before finalising the regulation, but the immediate reaction in Kerala remains one of caution and concern.