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In recent days, a video circulating on social media has ignited concerns regarding the popular 'Aashirvaad' brand of wheat flour, suggesting that it contains plastic. Given the widespread consumption of wheat flour-based food products, an investigation was initiated following an alert received on our Fact Check hotline, 8129100164.The video claimed that the consumption of wheat flour could be harmful, especially for children, due to alleged plastic content. Subsequent online searches led to a post on a social media platform (formerly Twitter), where it was alleged that despite the company's assertion of 0% maida (refined flour) and 100% atta (whole wheat flour), the dough exhibited a rubber-like consistency. Accompanying this claim was a video alleging harm resulting from the consumption of wheat flour.Upon closer examination, it was discovered that ITC Private…

New Delhi, September 21 - IN-SPACe, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, has taken a significant stride towards bolstering the space industry standards in India. In collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), IN-SPACe has introduced a comprehensive framework called the "Catalogue of Indian Standards for Space Industry," drawing inspiration from global benchmarks.This significant unveiling took place during the inaugural session of the International Conference on Space 2023, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Rajeev Jyoti, Director of the Technical Directorate at IN-SPACe, had the honor of introducing the catalogue to the public.The "Catalogue of Indian Standards for Space Industry" is a compilation of 15 standards meticulously developed by the BIS. These standards encompass a wide spectrum of domains, encompassing Space System Program Management strategies,…

In an era where environmental sustainability is a paramount concern, every small step towards reducing plastic pollution counts. Recognizing the need for eco-friendly alternatives, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has taken a significant stride by publishing IS 18267: 2023, titled "Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products – Specification." This recent government notification is not just a standard; it's a roadmap to a greener, more sustainable future.A Growing Need for ChangeThe use of disposable tableware has surged globally, fueling the market for disposable plates and utensils. According to recent statistics, the disposable plate market was valued at USD 4.26 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 6.73 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.94% from 2021 to 2028. The convenience of disposable tableware has led…

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), India's National Standards Body, has embarked on a pioneering mission aimed at raising awareness about the pivotal role of standards in enhancing our quality of life. BIS proudly announced the establishment of a remarkable 6,467 Standard Clubs within schools and colleges across the nation. This transformative initiative, which began in 2021, is dedicated to instilling an appreciation for quality, standards, and scientific inquiry among the youth.In an official statement, BIS emphasized the importance of nurturing the younger generation's understanding of quality, standardization, and their far-reaching impact on accelerated economic development. These Standard Clubs serve as vehicles for igniting the spark of curiosity and innovation in students, ultimately contributing to the transformation of Indian society.As of now, these clubs have garnered an impressive membership of…

In a recent government notification, manufacturers of certain footwear products have been granted a six-month extension to comply with the revised specifications. This extension comes as welcome news to the footwear industry, providing additional time to align their production processes with the updated standards. Let's delve into the details of this notification and its implications for both manufacturers and consumers.Background: Why Revised Standards?Standards play a pivotal role in ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of consumer goods. In the case of footwear, standards are vital to guaranteeing that products meet specific criteria related to materials, design, and durability. Periodically, standards are revised to incorporate advancements in technology, materials, and manufacturing processes. These revisions are essential to keep pace with evolving industry practices and to enhance product quality.Extended Compliance Deadline: Key…

Introduction: In the face of growing concerns about climate change, India is making strides towards embracing eco-friendly energy alternatives. The government has introduced various plans and incentive schemes to pave the way for a sustainable energy future. Anupam Shukla, the Special Secretary and Managing Director of UPNEDA (Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency), sheds light on these initiatives in a conversation with Ritika Srivastava of Elets News Network (ENN).Smart Grids and Urban Planning: Smart grids, which modernize electrical grids using advanced technologies, align closely with urban planning principles aimed at creating energy-efficient cities. Shukla explains how smart grids can contribute to this goal:Demand Management: Smart grids enable real-time monitoring of energy consumption, allowing urban planners to optimize energy demand through load balancing and demand response programs.Renewable Energy Integration:…

In an endeavor to nurture a culture of quality and standards awareness among the youth of India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has initiated a remarkable project known as 'Standards Clubs.' The BIS proudly announced the establishment of 6,467 such clubs in schools and colleges all across the nation. These clubs serve as platforms to educate young minds about the pivotal role that standards play in enhancing the quality of life.In a statement, BIS highlighted the significance of this initiative, emphasizing the role of children in shaping a robust and dynamic India. "Children are the architects of a strong, vibrant, and dynamic India. The BIS is lighting up the future of India with a visionary initiative - the creation of Standards Clubs in schools and colleges across the nation.…

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has embarked on an extensive nationwide survey focusing on milk and milk products. This initiative aims to combat the pervasive issue of adulteration in these essential food items. FSSAI Advisor (Quality Assurance) Satyen K Panda announced on Monday that this comprehensive survey will continue until October, with the regulator slated to present its findings to the health ministry by December.Covering a staggering 766 districts across India, the surveillance survey will involve the collection of over 10,000 samples during its course. To execute this ambitious endeavor, two agencies have been enlisted: the Quality Council of India, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the National Dairy Development Board.The survey's scope encompasses a wide array of milk and milk-based…

In a move aimed at bolstering user accessibility and experience, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to introduce a Hindi version of FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System).The decision comes in response to demands from various quarters to make such systems available in Hindi, ultimately simplifying user interaction with the platform."This is an important step towards enhancing business operational efficiency in the food industry. It further underscores the Government's commitment to facilitating business," stated the FSSAI in an official release.Since 2020, the FSSAI has consolidated FoSCoS into a single interface for food businesses and regulatory authorities nationwide, streamlining compliance and enforcement-related activities.According to the FSSAI, this system has played a pivotal role in digitally transforming various food safety processes, simplifying adherence to regulatory norms for food…

Food technology, a multidisciplinary field that melds science, engineering, and nutrition, is steadily gaining recognition in India. Its mission? To enhance the quality, safety, and sustainability of food products and processes. This encompasses an array of responsibilities, including the study of food characteristics, nutritional composition, reactions during processing and storage, and microbiological factors to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life. Food technologists aspire to develop innovative products and technologies that elevate the food processing industry to new heights. Moreover, they play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and regulatory compliance of food products and in accrediting food plants.India's Food Transformation:India has achieved self-sufficiency in food production, but it doesn't stop there. The nation is now marching towards achieving nutritional security. Increased consumer awareness has made people increasingly mindful of…