The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated a significant enforcement drive against numerous food and nutraceutical companies, citing concerns over misleading health claims, labeling discrepancies, and hygiene failures. Public advisories from the regulator reveal notices issued to prominent brands across various product categories, from fruit juices and edible oils to dietary supplements and dairy items.
Misleading Health Claims Under Scrutiny
A primary focus of the FSSAI's action is the proliferation of unsubstantiated health and nutritional claims. The regulator has challenged phrases such as "No Added Sugar," "100% Natural," "Heart Pro," and "Pure & Healthy," along with specific disease-related claims that lack scientific backing or violate advertising regulations. Companies that received notices include Pluckk, Marico, Ferrero India, MasterChow Foods, Raw Pressery, Gaur Healthy Food, Nexa Industries, Medizen Labs, Nutraceuticals, Param Dairy, and Bikanervala.
Specific Examples of Flagged Claims:
- Pluckk: Questioned for a "No Added Sugar" claim on mango juice, despite sugar cane juice being listed in ingredients.
- Marico: Its Saffola Total Heart Pro cooking oil was flagged for using "Heart Pro" and heart imagery, implying health benefits beyond permitted regulations.
- Ferrero India: Kinder Joy-coated wafer biscuits faced scrutiny over a "Rich in Milk Solids" claim on the front of the pack.
- MasterChow Foods: Challenged on claims like "100% Natural," "Freshly Made," and references to organic ingredients.
- Medizen Labs: Its whey protein product was questioned for claims such as "Easy Digest," "Lean Muscle Gains & Strength," and "Rapid Recovery."
The FSSAI emphasized that all such claims must be scientifically substantiated and comply with the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018.
Hygiene and Contamination Concerns Addressed
Beyond advertising, the FSSAI also acted on consumer complaints regarding food safety and hygiene. The regulator issued a notice to Bikanervala following a social media complaint alleging a staff member consuming food within a kitchen area during operational hours, raising hygiene concerns. Similarly, Param Dairy was asked to provide details after a complaint of fungal contamination in dahi and rabri supplied through IRCTC catering services.
These notices require companies to respond to the FSSAI’s observations, provide supporting documentation, and outline corrective action plans where necessary. The intensified enforcement reflects the regulator's commitment to ensuring truthful labeling and safe food practices for consumers.