A high-level parliamentary committee has raised serious concerns about the current food labelling system regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The panel concluded that the existing labels are often too complex and difficult for the average consumer to read and interpret correctly.
Parliamentarians Advocate for Clearer Warning Labels
The committee, which was reviewing FSSAI regulations, emphasized the critical need for simplicity. Parliamentarians argued that clear and straightforward warning labels on food packages are not just a convenience but a necessity. They stated that such labels "significantly enhance the consumer's ability to make quick and informed decisions, particularly for those with low literacy levels."
This observation points to a major gap in the current food safety ecosystem. While regulations exist to inform the public, their effectiveness is undermined if the information is not accessible to all sections of society.
The Core Challenge: Complexity Versus Clarity
The review highlights a fundamental disconnect. Food labels, which are meant to empower consumers with knowledge about ingredients, nutritional value, and potential allergens, are failing in their primary objective. The technical jargon, small print, and complex layouts make it challenging for a vast segment of the Indian population to understand what they are purchasing and consuming.
The panel's findings, reported on 16 December 2025, suggest that the FSSAI must reconsider its labelling guidelines. The focus should shift from merely providing information to ensuring that information is comprehensible. This is especially crucial in a diverse country like India, where literacy levels and language proficiencies vary widely.
Implications for Policy and Public Health
The committee's critique carries significant weight for future food safety regulation in India. It calls for a user-centric redesign of food labels. Potential changes could include:
- Larger, bolder fonts for critical warnings.
- Use of universal symbols and colour codes for high sugar, salt, and fat content.
- Simpler language that transcends educational barriers.
Implementing clearer labels would be a direct step towards strengthening consumer awareness and public health. It would enable individuals to make healthier choices, potentially combating lifestyle diseases linked to poor diet. The ball is now in FSSAI's court to revise its standards and create a labelling system that truly serves every Indian consumer.
