FSSAI Questions Birth Weight Claims on Horlicks

FSSAI’s notice to HUL concerns Horlicks Mother’s Plus Kesar, a 400 g product. After examining a complaint, the product label, advertisements, and an e-commerce listing, the regulator raised concerns about claims linking the product to a baby’s birth weight. FSSAI flagged phrases such as “Healthy Birth Weight” on the label and “For baby’s healthy birth weight” in an advertisement, stating that they could mislead consumers and potentially violate the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018.

According to the regulator, these claims could imply that consuming the product directly benefits a baby’s birth weight. FSSAI also questioned an e-commerce listing that included descriptions such as “For Pregnancy and Lactation with Protein for Birth Weight” and “DHA for Brain Development – No Added Sugar” in the product name, citing concerns over compliance with prescribed requirements for such claims. HUL must respond within the stipulated period. An unsatisfactory explanation could lead to further action under the applicable food safety laws.

Nestlé’s Resource Renal Faces Approval and Labelling Questions

FSSAI’s notice to Nestlé India concerns Resource Renal vanilla-flavoured powder, intended for the dietary management of people with chronic kidney disease receiving conservative treatment. The regulator stated that products in this category require prior approval under the Food Safety and Standards (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Food for Special Dietary Use, Food for Special Medical Purpose, and Prebiotic and Probiotic Food) Regulations, 2022. According to the notice, Nestlé India had not obtained the required approval.

FSSAI also flagged the absence of the prescribed vegetarian or non-vegetarian symbol on the product label, citing non-compliance with the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.

Nestlé India must explain its position within the stipulated period. The regulator may take further action if the response proves unsatisfactory. Both companies have an opportunity to respond to FSSAI’s observations. The allegations do not establish a final finding of liability, and further action will depend on the outcome of the regulatory proceedings.

Source: CNBCTv18