FSSAI Targets Misleading Food Labels: Bold, Larger Font for Salt, Sugar, and Fat Content on Packaged Foods
FSSAI and BMC partner to provide Food Safety Training to over 10,000 Street Food vendors in Mumbai
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has approved a proposal to enhance the visibility of nutritional information on packaged food labels. This move aims to empower consumers to make healthier choices and combat the rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The decision was made during the 44th meeting of the Food Authority, chaired by Shri Apurva Chandra, Chairperson, FSSAI.
Key Changes in Labelling Regulations
The amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, will require the nutritional content of total sugar, salt, and saturated fat to be displayed in bold letters and larger font sizes on packaged food labels. This change will help consumers better understand the nutritional value of the products they consume.
Public Feedback Invited
A draft notification for the amendment will be released for public comment, inviting suggestions and objections. This step ensures transparency and public participation in the regulatory process.
Focus on Public Health
The new labelling regulations will also display the per-serve percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for total sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content in bold letters. These requirements are specified under Regulation 2(v) and 5(3) of the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
Combating Misleading Claims
FSSAI continues to issue advisories to prevent false and misleading claims by food business operators (FBOs). Recent directives include the removal of the term ‘Health Drink’ from labels and advertisements, the prohibition of ‘100% fruit juice’ claims for reconstituted juices, and regulations on terms like wheat flour and refined wheat flour. These measures aim to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices.
Inclusive Decision-Making
The meeting was attended by senior officials from various ministries, including Health and Family Welfare, Commerce, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Law and Justice, and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Representatives from industry associations, consumer organizations, research institutes, and farmers’ organizations were also present, ensuring a comprehensive approach to decision-making on misleading food labels.
Conclusion
The FSSAI’s amendment to food labelling regulations is a significant step towards empowering consumers and promoting public health. By making nutritional information more accessible, the authority aims to help consumers make informed dietary choices and reduce the prevalence of NCDs.
