Key Update

Continuing its crackdown on misleading food labels and product claims, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several food business operators for alleged violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. According to the regulator, the notices relate to misleading brand names, trade names, product claims, labelling violations, and consumer complaints. FSSAI has directed the companies concerned to take corrective measures.

Multiple Brands Under Regulatory Scrutiny

FSSAI has issued a notice to Pluckk over its “No Added Sugar” claim on mango fruit juice products. Raw Pressery’s Alphonso Mango Drink has also come under scrutiny for carrying the statement “contains naturally occurring sugars” despite the presence of fructose as an added sugar. The regulator has additionally flagged labelling non-compliances in the product.

In the case of Natureland Organics, FSSAI has raised objections to the use of the term “Natural” on its paneer product, citing non-compliance with regulatory provisions governing such claims. The regulator has also issued a notice to Gaur Healthy Foods regarding its Silken Tofu product. FSSAI has questioned claims such as “100% Veg”, “Rich in Minerals”, and references to anti-cancer properties.

Product Claims Face Increased Scrutiny

MasterChow has received a notice over claims including “100% Natural” and “Freshly Made” on its Ramen Noodles products. According to FSSAI, these claims may mislead consumers and do not comply with applicable regulations.

Chocolate manufacturer Ferrero has also come under the regulator’s scanner. FSSAI has objected to the front-of-pack claim “Rich in Milk Solids” on Kinder Joy Coated Wafer Biscuits with Cocoa Spread, stating that the product’s ingredient composition does not adequately support the claim.

Medizen Labs has received a notice regarding claims made for its whey protein products, including statements suggesting the products are “pure”, “healthy”, easy to digest, and support rapid recovery. FSSAI has questioned whether these claims are adequately substantiated. Marico has also been asked to explain its use of the term “Heart Pro” and heart imagery on the labels of its Total Heart Pro Multi-Source Cooking Oil. The regulator stated that such representations may go beyond the nutrient-specific claims permitted under existing regulations.

Other companies that have reportedly received notices include Orville for its Buransh Squash product and Nexa Industries for claims related to alkaline water.

Notices Also Issued Over Consumer Complaints

In a separate matter, FSSAI has issued a notice to Bikanervala following a social media complaint alleging that a staff member was consuming food inside the service and kitchen area. The regulator has asked the company to provide details of its internal investigation and the corrective actions taken.

FSSAI has also served a notice to Param Dairy following allegations of fungal contamination in dahi and rabri supplied through IRCTC catering services. The regulator’s latest actions signal continued enforcement against misleading claims and food safety concerns, while emphasising the importance of accurate labelling and responsible communication to consumers.

Source: BusinessLine