Uttar Pradesh Makes ‘Use by Date’ Mandatory for Loose Sweets

The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has announced that sweet shops across the state will have to display a “Use by Date” on loose sweets sold to consumers. The requirement will come into effect from 15 October 2026 and is intended to provide consumers with clearer information about the freshness and permissible shelf life of such products.

The decision follows inspections conducted by food safety officials at sweet manufacturing units and retail outlets. According to the department, consumers were not always provided with adequate information about when loose sweets were manufactured or how long they could safely be consumed. Since the shelf life differs according to the type of sweet, the department has directed sellers to clearly indicate the applicable date.

Officials noted that the shelf life of different varieties of sweets can range from approximately one day to 30 days. Factors such as ingredients, preparation methods and storage conditions can influence the period for which a product retains its quality.

The FSDA has also taken action concerning the use of certain chemicals in milk-processing facilities. Inspections reportedly found ethylene glycol (EG) and diethylene glycol (DEG) being used as coolants at some establishments during pasteurisation and refrigeration processes. The department has prohibited their use because leakage from processing equipment could potentially result in contamination of milk.

Both EG and DEG are industrial chemicals and are not intended for use in food processing. The department has indicated that propylene glycol may be used as an alternative coolant in appropriate food-processing applications.

The measures form part of the state's continuing efforts to strengthen food safety controls at manufacturing and retail establishments.

28-09-2026