FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading Food Labels: Bold, Larger Font for Salt, Sugar, and Fat Content
In a major crackdown on misleading food labels, and tasked with promoting public health and well-being, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has approved an amendment to display nutritional information regarding total sugar, salt, and saturated fat in bold letters and a larger font size on packaged food labels. This decision was taken during the 44th meeting of the Food Authority under the chairmanship of Shri Apurva Chandra, Chairperson, FSSAI.
Empowering Consumers
The amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, seeks to empower consumers by making it easier for them to understand the nutritional value of the products they consume. With clearer labelling, consumers can make more informed and healthier choices.
Combating Non-Communicable Diseases
This initiative is part of broader efforts to combat the rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India. Clear and distinct labelling requirements will aid in the global fight against NCDs by promoting better dietary choices and public health.
Public Feedback Invited
The draft notification for the amendment will soon be released for public comment, inviting suggestions and objections. This step ensures transparency and public participation in the regulatory process.
Key Labelling Changes
The new regulations will require the per-serve percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for total sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content to be highlighted in bold letters. This change falls under Regulation 2 (v) and 5(3) of the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulation, 2020, which specifies the requirements for serving size and nutritional information on food product labels.
Ongoing Efforts to Prevent Misleading Claims
FSSAI continues to issue advisories to prevent false and misleading claims by Food Business Operators (FBOs). Recent directives include the removal of the term ‘Health Drink’ from labels and advertisements, the prohibition of ‘100% fruit juices’ claims for reconstituted juices, and the regulation of terms like wheat flour and refined wheat flour. These measures aim to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices.
Inclusive Decision-Making
The meeting saw the participation of senior officials from various ministries, including Health and Family Welfare, Commerce, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Law and Justice, and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Representatives from industry associations, consumer organizations, research institutes, and farmers’ organizations were also present, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the decision-making process for action on misleading food labels.
