FSSAI Flags Labelling and Declaration Violations

The regulator flagged several alleged labelling violations in the product, marketed as “TATA 1mg Marine Collagen Powder fortified with grape seed extract for enhanced results”. These include the failure to print the mandatory statement “not for medicinal use” in bold. The regulator also noted that the category term “nutraceutical” did not appear in the prescribed font size and position alongside the product name.

Regulator Questions Health and Beauty Claims

FSSAI also questioned the product’s claim that it “supports glowing and radiant skin” and its advertised claims of 15%, 23% and 14% changes within 12 weeks. According to the regulator, the company has not provided sufficient evidence to establish the credibility of these claims or their association with the product.

Other concerns include describing the product as “pure collagen” despite containing multiple ingredients and making comparative claims against competing products. The regulator also flagged inconsistent flavour declarations, with the product described as “orange flavour” in one section and “flavourless/unflavoured” in another. Additionally, FSSAI questioned claims about benefits for skin, hair, nails and joints, stating that these lacked adequate supporting evidence.

Companies Given 30 Days to Respond

The alleged violations prima facie contravene the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, and the regulations governing health supplements and nutraceuticals introduced in 2022. According to a press note issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 2, FSSAI has directed Tata 1mg, Amazon and Flipkart to submit their explanations within 30 days of receiving the notices. The concerned Central Licensing Authorities have also been informed for further action.

Source: The Indian Express