The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified its scrutiny of food labelling and packaging practices, issuing notices to 15 food businesses for allegedly misleading consumers through brand names, trade names and product claims. The regulator, which functions under the Union Health Ministry, said several companies, including Plan B Plant Based Vegan, The Health Factory and Neuherbs True Vitamin, were found in violation of provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI has reiterated that food labels must not mislead consumers about the nature, composition or nutritional value of products. Brand and trade names cannot replace accurate product descriptions, and any health-related claims such as “healthy”, “natural”, “high protein” or “immunity boosting” must be scientifically substantiated and comply with prescribed regulations.
The regulator also mandates that all packaged food products clearly display the FSSAI logo, licence number, manufacturing or packaging date, and best-before or use-by information. Mandatory declarations must include ingredient lists, nutritional details, allergen warnings, vegetarian or non-vegetarian symbols, and manufacturer information, all presented in a clear and legible format.
FSSAI has further emphasized that all food-contact packaging materials must be food-grade, safe, and suitable for storage and transportation without altering food quality or safety. It has also directed e-commerce platforms to display mandatory product information before purchase.
Violations of packaging and labelling rules can attract penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, including fines up to ₹10 lakh and product recalls in serious cases. The regulator may also suspend licences and order corrective actions to ensure consumer safety and transparency in the food sector.
