The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) has released a circulation draft for the third revision of the national standard “BDS 1581: Specification for Fruit Drinks”, inviting public comments until 25 April 2026. The proposed revision aims to strengthen product definitions, ingredient requirements, and safety standards for fruit drink products marketed in Bangladesh.
The draft introduces updated provisions on permitted ingredients and sweeteners, alongside numeric limits for preservatives used in fruit drink formulations. It also establishes stricter microbiological safety criteria, including zero tolerance for pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, reflecting enhanced food safety controls.
In addition to formulation requirements, the revised standard proposes enhanced labelling and import provisions. Manufacturers will be required to clearly declare any added inclusions or ingredients on product labels. For imported fruit drinks, the draft requires that products must retain at least two-thirds of their total shelf life at the time of import, ensuring adequate product quality and safety for consumers.
If implemented, the updated standard will require manufacturers and importers to review product formulations, strengthen microbiological testing protocols, and adjust supply chain and inventory management practices to comply with the new regulatory framework.
Consumer News Region