New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to actively consider introducing front-of-pack warning labels on packaged food products, highlighting concerns about high levels of sugar, saturated fats, and sodium, CNBC-TV18 reported.
While hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) that calls for mandatory front-of-pack labelling, the court said there was a prima facie case indicating that prominent warnings could help protect public health.
The bench observed that companies may resist such measures but stressed that the regulator must place public health ahead of commercial interests. It also cautioned that if the FSSAI fails to act, the court may step in and direct the authority to submit its response within four weeks.
The PIL contends that nutrition details currently printed on the back of packages are not enough for consumers to make informed choices, especially as the consumption of packaged foods continues to rise.
The court’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny of food labelling practices. CNBC-TV18 had earlier reported that the FSSAI has recently flagged misleading or insufficiently supported health and nutrition claims across several packaged food categories. The regulator has issued advisories and increased checks on products such as edible oils, honey, beverages, nutraceuticals, and ready-to-eat foods.
An independent study by LabelBlind Solutions found that nearly one-third of labelling claims reviewed across packaged foods were either non-compliant or lacked adequate support under existing rules.
The study also reported higher levels of non-compliance in everyday items including honey, ghee, edible oils, and tea. Gaps were also identified in newer categories such as plant-based beverages, ready-to-eat meals, and packaged snacks.
The matter will be taken up again after the FSSAI files its response.
