A Zone of Ambiguity
Until recently, the oversight of food sold within India's bustling airport terminals operated in a zone of regulatory ambiguity. Was it the responsibility of the state's Food and Drug Administration, the central authority FSSAI, or the private airport operators
themselves? This lack of a single, clear line of authority created potential gaps in enforcement. For food business operators (FBOs), it could mean confusion over licensing requirements. For travelers, it meant that the standards of hygiene and safety could vary, depending on how different authorities interpreted their roles. This jurisdictional tangle was not ideal for critical transit hubs that serve millions of domestic and international passengers daily, where consistent and high food safety standards are non-negotiable.
FSSAI's New Directive
Recognizing the need for unified control, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has stepped in to clear the air. Through a series of orders in early 2026, the food regulator has explicitly extended the jurisdiction of its central officers to cover India's major airports. Specifically, Designated Officers have been appointed to oversee central licensing for the airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. This move formally places the food businesses operating within these high-traffic terminals directly under the scanner of the central authority, removing the long-standing confusion and establishing a clear chain of command for food safety regulation.
Central vs. State Jurisdiction Explained
The new directive solidifies a crucial distinction: FBOs operating within airport premises now unequivocally require a central license from FSSAI. This is different from a typical restaurant or bakery in a city, which might operate under a state-issued license depending on its turnover. By mandating a central license for all airport food vendors, FSSAI ensures that they are subject to a uniform set of standards, inspections, and enforcement actions managed directly by the central body. This harmonization is key to elevating and maintaining food safety across the board, regardless of which state the airport is located in. It simplifies the process for businesses and creates a single, accountable authority for passengers.
What About In-Flight Meals?
The FSSAI's regulatory focus extends beyond the terminal and into the sky. The authority has also clarified the rules for airlines and their catering partners, which are often located near airports. Airlines are now required to obtain a single Head Office FSSAI license with specific endorsements for their catering and retail activities. Furthermore, FSSAI has stressed the importance of proper labelling on in-flight meals, providing passengers with crucial information about the food's origin, preparation date, and the caterer's license number. This comprehensive approach ensures that the entire food supply chain, from the flight kitchen to the food court in the terminal and finally to your seat on the plane, is covered under a cohesive safety framework.
What This Means for Travelers
For the average passenger, this regulatory change translates into a more reliable and safer food experience. With FSSAI's central officers directly overseeing airport food establishments, you can expect more stringent and frequent inspections, better hygiene standards, and quicker action on any complaints. The move establishes clear accountability; if there is a lapse in food safety, there is no question about which authority is responsible for investigation and enforcement. Ultimately, this clarification is designed to build trust and confidence. The next time you buy a coffee or a meal at the airport, you can do so with greater assurance that it has been prepared under a consistent and federally monitored safety standard.
