The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified scrutiny of health and nutrition claims on food and nutraceutical products, issuing notices to multiple companies over potentially misleading branding, labelling, and advertising. The regulator flagged products marketed as 'natural', 'healthy', 'heart-friendly', and 'no added sugar', among others.
Recent Actions Targeting Misleading Claims
Among the products questioned was a mango juice claiming 'no added sugar' despite listing 49% sugarcane juice in its ingredients. FSSAI also challenged '100% natural' claims on instant noodles, 'natural paneer' branding, and health assertions by nutraceutical, whey protein, and herbal products. A tofu product advertised with 'anti-cancer properties' and a cooking oil sold as 'Heart Pro' were also flagged.
The move follows earlier FSSAI notices questioning claims such as 'healthy', 'organic', and 'zero maida', indicating a broader crackdown on deceptive marketing practices.
Industry and Expert Reactions
Former FSSAI CEO Pawan Kumar Agarwal stated that the action reflects stronger enforcement of existing regulations. 'India already has robust claim regulations. Notices are only the first step in a verification process and not proof of wrongdoing,' he said. He added that reputational damage often acts as a stronger deterrent for companies than monetary penalties.
Consumer health experts welcomed the crackdown. Dr Arun Gupta, convener of Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest, said labels such as 'healthy', 'natural', and 'no added sugar' often create a false 'health halo' around ultra-processed foods, making them appear healthier than they are.
Common Misunderstandings About Food Labels
Dr V Mohan, chairman of Dr Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre in Chennai, emphasized that 'no added sugar' does not necessarily mean a product is healthy. Monita Gahlot, dietician at AIIMS, noted that terms like 'fat-free', 'multigrain', 'immunity booster', 'heart healthy', and 'superfood' are among the most misunderstood claims. 'Consumers need to look beyond marketing messages,' she said.
Additional Actions by FSSAI
Separately, FSSAI issued notices to Bikanervala over alleged hygiene lapses and to Param Dairy over complaints of fungal contamination in dairy products supplied through IRCTC catering services.
