The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified its efforts to ensure transparency in food labelling by issuing notices to three food companies over allegedly misleading claims and incorrect product labels. The move is part of the regulator’s ongoing campaign to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices and ensure compliance with India’s food safety regulations.
The notices have been served to Heritage Foods Limited, Dia Foods, and Cipzer Nutraceuticals for claims made on products ranging from paneer and chocolate spread to nutraceutical juice capsules. The companies have been asked to clarify their product labels and marketing statements and explain why action should not be taken against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Heritage Foods’ Paneer Under Regulatory Scrutiny
One of the products under examination is Heritage Fresh Paneer. FSSAI has raised concerns over the use of the word “Fresh” on the packaging, stating that such terms must meet specific regulatory standards before being displayed on food labels.
The regulator has also questioned the use of promotional phrases such as “Healthy Happiness,” noting that words implying health benefits must be scientifically supported and should not create a misleading impression among consumers.
Vegan Chocolate Spread Faces Labelling Questions
FSSAI has also issued a notice to Dia Foods for its La Casa Vegan Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. The authority has objected to claims including “All Natural,” “100% Organic,” and other promotional statements that could potentially mislead buyers.
According to the regulator, food businesses must ensure that claims related to organic ingredients, natural products, or nutritional benefits are backed by valid certifications and comply with the prescribed food labelling regulations.
Cipzer Asked to Explain Health-Related Claims
Cipzer Nutraceuticals has also come under the scanner over claims made for its juice capsules. The company allegedly used statements suggesting immunity enhancement, detoxification, and references to FSSAI approval on its product packaging.
FSSAI has clarified that while it grants licences to food businesses, it does not individually approve food products in the manner suggested by such marketing claims. It has also reiterated that health-related claims must be supported by scientific evidence and comply with the Advertising and Claims Regulations.
Apart from promotional statements, the regulator has reportedly identified issues related to ingredient declarations, nutritional information, and product labelling that require corrective action.
Companies Directed to Respond
The three companies have been asked to submit their responses within the stipulated time and make necessary corrections wherever required. Depending on their explanations, FSSAI may decide on further regulatory action if any violations of food safety standards are established.
What This Means for Consumers
The latest action serves as a reminder for consumers to carefully read product labels instead of relying solely on marketing slogans. Words such as “fresh,” “natural,” “healthy,” and “organic” can influence purchasing decisions, but these claims must meet strict regulatory requirements.
FSSAI’s continued enforcement against misleading food labels is aimed at improving transparency in the packaged food sector and ensuring that consumers receive accurate information before making purchasing decisions.
As the packaged food market continues to expand in India, regulatory oversight is expected to become even more stringent, encouraging food manufacturers to adopt clearer, more accurate, and legally compliant labelling practices.
