FSSAI cracks down on misleading ‘healthy’ and ‘organic’ food claims, issues notices to multiple brands

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued fresh notices to various food business operators (FBOs) for alleged breaches of the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 relating to misleading food labelling.

The move has been made to make transparent the food marketing and to stop consumers from being misled by health and quality claims that have not been verified.

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FSSAI Tightens Oversight on Food Labelling

The food regulator says several products and brands have fallen under its radar for using labels like “healthy,” “organic,” “vegan” and “zero maida” that could be misleading in the context of the current food labelling guidelines. Businesses need to comply with the laid down labelling and display standards to prevent consumer deception, FSSAI said.

Some of the brands that were identified include those with names or taglines that could lead consumers to believe that the product is healthy or certified when it is not. FSSAI posed queries on “True Vitamin”, “Plant Based Vegan” and “Zero Maida” which may not be recognised by relevant regulations or do need to be approved and certified.

The regulator has also expressed its concerns on the sale of products that are labeled as organic but do not have certification or Jaivik Bharat logo. Several snack items, breads, oils and health oriented packaged products were also identified for branding that may mislead consumers to think that these products have a health claim not backed by regulation.

Claims Under the Scanner

Notices were received by companies that sold bread, pizza bases, cooking oils, vitamins, snacks, drinking water and organic foods. The action is part of FSSAI's ongoing work to enhance consumer confidence and ensure that claims make factual statements about a product.

The latest enforcement drive comes amid increased regulatory focus on food labelling in India. In recent years, FSSAI has also taken action against misleading claims on fruit juices, other packaged foods and the importance of accurate and scientifically sound product information.

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FAQs

Q1: Why did FSSAI issue notices to food companies?

Ans: FSSAI found that some products may be using misleading claims such as “healthy,” “organic,” or “vegan,” which could confuse consumers.

Q2: What should consumers check before buying organic products?

Ans: Consumers should verify certification details and look for the Jaivik Bharat logo on product packaging.