Key Update

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a notice to Rishtey Namkeen Proprietor over alleged labelling deficiencies in two of its products following complaints raised by consumers. According to the regulator, vigilant consumers flagged that the labels of Farsan Street Masala Patta and Farsan Street Roasted Millet Bhel did not disclose the specific type of edible vegetable oil used in the products.

Violation of Labelling Regulations

FSSAI stated that the company failed to comply with Regulation 5(2)(d)(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. The regulation requires food business operators to clearly declare the source of vegetable oils used in food products. Manufacturers cannot use generic terms such as “edible vegetable oil” in the ingredients list. They must instead specify the exact type of oil, such as palm oil, sunflower oil, rice bran oil, or cottonseed oil.

The requirement aims to provide consumers with accurate information about the ingredients used in food products and enable informed purchasing decisions.

FSSAI Directs Company to Submit Action Taken Report

Following the findings, FSSAI directed the food business operator (FBO) to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) and bring the product labels into compliance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the applicable labelling regulations. The regulator’s action forms part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency in food labelling and ensure that food businesses provide complete and accurate ingredient information to consumers.

Focus on Transparent Food Labelling

The case highlights the growing role of consumer vigilance in identifying potential food labelling violations. It also underscores the importance of clear ingredient declarations, particularly for products containing edible oils, as consumers increasingly seek detailed information about the foods they purchase.

FSSAI has been actively scrutinising food labels and product claims in recent months as part of broader efforts to improve compliance with food safety and labelling standards.

Source: Fssai linedin page