The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has compelled several prominent food business operators (FBOs), including Mondelez India Foods and Amway India Enterprises, to take corrective actions regarding misleading health, nutrition, and product claims. The regulator announced that companies have withdrawn advertisements, removed specific claims, and are in the process of revising their product packaging to align with food safety and labeling standards.
FSSAI Targets Misleading Claims
The FSSAI's intervention addresses a variety of issues, ranging from unsubstantiated health and nutrient-comparison claims to the inappropriate use of terms such as “100%” and “Energy Drink.” This significant move aims to protect consumers, as health and nutrition claims on packaged foods heavily influence purchasing decisions, particularly when products are marketed based on perceived nutritional benefits.
Mondelez India Withdraws Health Claims
Mondelez India Foods Pvt Ltd, known for its Bournvita brand, was specifically flagged for misleading health claims and nutrient comparative claims. Following the FSSAI's notice, Mondelez India has removed the identified claims and associated advertisements from e-commerce platforms. The company has also submitted plans to ensure ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.
Amway Revises "100%" and "Energy Drink" Claims
Amway India Enterprises faced scrutiny for two distinct issues:
- "100%" Claim on Coconut Oil: Amway had used the term “100%” in the product name “100% Pure Coconut Oil.” The company confirmed it has voluntarily removed this term from both packaging and promotional materials. Old stock bearing the previous artwork has been discontinued, and revised packaging is now being introduced.
- "Energy Drink" Descriptor: The FSSAI also issued a notice concerning the use of the descriptor “Energy Drink” on Amway’s XS product range, which contains caffeine. Amway has agreed to discontinue this term, with revised packaging expected to be implemented in the next production cycle by August 2026. The company has requested permission to sell existing market stock with the older artwork until inventory is depleted.
Other Companies Taking Corrective Action
Beyond Mondelez and Amway, other FBOs have also been prompted to act:
- Sapiens Labs: This company was flagged for a misleading “suo moto” claim and has since withdrawn the claims and advertisements in response to the FSSAI notice.
- Juza Foods (Kerala-based): Juza Foods faced a broader range of concerns, including claims like “Real & pure nutrition,” “100% vegan,” “ideal for sensitive babies,” and immunity-related benefits, as well as comparative calcium claims. The FSSAI also noted that the company was operating an online food business without the necessary e-commerce endorsement on its license. Juza Foods has acknowledged the violations, agreed to remove the misleading claims, and temporarily shut down its selling website until all required rectifications and licensing changes are completed.
These actions underscore the FSSAI's commitment to ensuring transparency and accuracy in food labeling, empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions based on factual information.