FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading Food Labels

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated a rigorous examination of health and nutrition claims on food and nutraceutical products. This move targets marketing that may mislead consumers with labels such as 'natural', 'healthy', 'heart-friendly', and 'no added sugar'. Products found to be potentially misbranded or falsely advertised are now facing closer scrutiny from the regulator.

Specific cases include mango juice advertised with 'no added sugar' yet containing 49% sugarcane juice, and instant noodles promoted as '100% natural'. Health claims made by whey protein and herbal products, as well as a tofu product claiming 'anti-cancer properties' and a cooking oil labeled 'Heart Pro', have also been questioned. Consumer health experts support this crackdown, noting that such labels can create a misleading 'health halo'.

Beyond labeling, FSSAI has also issued separate notices for hygiene lapses to Bikanervala and for fungal contamination in dairy products supplied by Param Dairy. These actions underscore a broader enforcement effort driven by consumer feedback and increased public awareness regarding food safety and product accuracy.