Chapter VIII - Analysis of Food
Section 46
Section 46: Functions of Food Analyst
A Food Analyst verifies the sample seal and reports analysis through the statutory channel.
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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
(1) On receipt of a package containing a sample for analysis from a Food Safety Officer or any other person, the Food Analyst shall compare the seal on the container and the outer cover with specimen impression received separately and shall note the conditions of the seal thereon: Provided that in case a sample container received by the Food Analyst is found to be in broken condition or unfit for analysis, he shall within a period of seven days from the date of receipt of such sample inform the Designated Officer about the same and send requisition to him for sending second part of the sample.
(2) The Food Analyst shall cause to be analysed such samples of article of food as may be sent to him by Food Safety Officer or by any other person authorised under this Act.
(3) The Food Analyst shall, within a period of fourteen days from the date of receipt of any sample for analysis, send— (i) where such sample is received under section 38 or section 47, to the Designated Officer, four copies of the report indicating the method of sampling and analysis; and (ii) where such sample is received under section 40, a copy of the report indicating the method of sampling and analysis to the person who had purchased such article of food with a copy to the Designated Officer: Provided that in case the sample cannot be analysed within fourteen days of its receipt, the Food Analyst shall inform the Designated Officer and the Commissioner of Food Safety giving reasons and specifying the time to be taken for analysis.
(4) An appeal against the report of Food Analyst shall lie before the Designated Officer who shall, if he so decides, refer the matter to the referral food laboratory as notified by the Food Authority for opinion.
Key takeaways
Core rule
A Food Analyst verifies the sample seal and reports analysis through the statutory channel.
Practical check
Keep seal impressions, receipt condition, dates, method and signed report when assessing reliability and timeliness.
Scope and operation
A broken or unfit container must be reported to the Designated Officer within seven days. The analyst’s signed report states the method and result and follows the section’s reporting period.
Applying the section
Keep seal impressions, receipt condition, dates, method and signed report when assessing reliability and timeliness.
Official sources
Read the consolidated Act with the enacted and commenced amendments applicable to this section.
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Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026