In a major move to curb the sale of stale and poor-quality eggs, a new regulation is set to be implemented in parts of the country starting April 1. For the first time, customers will see the ‘Expiry Date’ laser-printed directly on the eggshells. This initiative aims to ensure transparency and food safety in a market often plagued by the sale of old stock.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has observed that stale eggs are frequently mixed with fresh ones in open markets, posing a significant health risk, including salmonella infections. Under the new guidelines, poultry farms and large-scale distributors must print the batch code and the ‘best before’ date using food-grade ink.

Initially, the rule will be rolled out in select metropolitan areas and retail chains. While some traders express concerns over the added cost of laser printing, health experts and consumer rights activists have hailed the decision as a milestone for food hygiene. From April 1, consumers are advised to check the stamp on the eggshell before making a purchase. This digital tracking will make it nearly impossible for dishonest vendors to push expired stock into the supply chain.