FSSAI PACKAGE LABELING
HUL sales rise 15% to hit 14-quarter high, but inflation clouds demand outlook
Hindustan Unilever posted a turnover of ₹18,071 crore for the September quarter, highlighting a 15% rise. Even with a price increase of 7.5%, the company's volume growth remained stable at 7%. Homecare emerged as the standout performer, boasting a robust 22% sales growth. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation climbed to ₹4,089 crore, an 8% boost. However, ongoing inflation and wage issues in rural sectors pose significant challenges.
Hindustan Unilever Limited backs FSSAI labelling norms for food products high in fat, salt and sugar
Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has expressed support for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI) proposed food labelling requirements. These requirements aim to enhance transparency for consumers regarding nutrition information. Managing Director Priya Nair emphasised that HUL is well prepared to comply with these regulations. The planned front-of-pack nutrition labelling will alert consumers about high levels of sugar, salt, or fat.
Snacking brand Troovy raises fresh funding of Rs 100 crore
Clean-label snacking brand Troovy has raised Rs 100 crore in a funding round led by Fireside Ventures and Sharrp Ventures, more than double the Rs 45.8 crore it secured in January. Founded in 2021, the company plans to use the fresh capital to expand research and development, manufacturing capacity and distribution across quick-commerce and offline channels. The fundraise comes amid growing demand for healthier snacks and proposed front-of-pack nutrition labelling rules in India.
Zero maida: Britannia ordered to stop misleading ads saying its bread is '100% whole wheat' because atta made up only around 62% of the finished product
CCPA has ordered Britannia Industries to withdraw advertisements claiming its bread is “100% Whole Wheat Bread”, finding the claim misleading because whole wheat flour accounts for around 62% of the finished product. The authority rejected the company's defence and directed it to pay a penalty and submit a compliance report within 15 days.
The food Indians buy is changing, and so is the scrutiny of what companies promise
India's Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has issued over 150 notices to various food and beverage companies. These notices address misleading advertisements, false claims, and labeling violations concerning multiple products. Regulatory actions involve well-known brands like ITC, AWL Agri Business, Dabur, and Hindustan Unilever. Additionally, serious food-safety violations have been flagged against companies like Priyagold and Dodla Dairy.
Nestle India submits response to FSSAI over Lactogen Pro 1 digestion claim
Nestle India has submitted a response to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India regarding its product Lactogen Pro 1. The regulator requested scientific evidence for the claim related to whey protein being easy to digest. This follows FSSAI's broader actions against potentially misleading health claims by food manufacturers. The authority raised concerns about claims related to immune support and nutrition for infants.
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FSSAI issues notice to Nestle India over Lactogen Pro 1 digestion claim
FSSAI has issued a notice to Nestle India regarding a claim that its product, Lactogen Pro 1 Powder contains easily digestible whey protein. Nestle India is required to provide scientific evidence and supporting documents to substantiate the claim. This action is part of a broader crackdown on misleading claims by food business operators in the industry.
Sweet sellers face heat over shelf life rules ahead of Diwali
Watchdog agencies in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand are among those that have made this mandatory. The directive aims to help consumers assess freshness as inspections have revealed that buyers were not always given clear information about when sweets were made or how long they remained suitable for consumption, the agencies said.
FMCG brands turn up the volume on ads as costs and scrutiny rise
Multiple packaged goods companies are increasing their advertising expenditures to maintain consumer demand amid rising inflation. Nestle India reported a significant rise in ad spending during the September quarter to enhance brand trust. Regulatory scrutiny from the FSSAI has prompted brands to emphasize safety and integrity in their advertising. Influencer-led marketing efforts are expected to grow significantly during the upcoming festive season.
Maharashtra FDA bans sale of loose spice powders, mixed spices to curb adulteration
Maharashtra's FDA has implemented a ban on the sale of loose and unpacked spice powders. This initiative aims to prevent adulteration and ensure traceability of spice products. Businesses involved in spice processing must comply with strict packaging and labelling regulations. The order also prohibits harmful substances used in spices, ensuring only permitted sterilisation methods are utilized. Violations of these regulations could lead to severe penalties, including closures and license cancellations.
Food companies, quick-commerce platforms face stricter FSSAI checks, higher compliance costs: Jefferies
Food companies, restaurants and quick-commerce platforms may face higher compliance costs and operational delays as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) expands regulatory scrutiny across the food supply chain, Jefferies said in a report.
FSSAI may amend laws to make online players more accountable
The regulator has also started inspections of dark stores of quick commerce firms and cloud kitchens, he said. While platforms often mention a product's shelf life, consumers may not know the actual expiry date or batch number of products before placing an order. The government has been examining complaints accusing quick commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto and Swiggy Instamart of failing to display product information, including expiry, best-before and use-by dates.
From paneer to pizza, FSSAI puts India’s ₹200 lakh crore consumer boom to the test. Who pays?
The FSSAI's escalated enforcement in consumer sectors in India has led to increased compliance costs for companies. Many brands are now reevaluating their product claims and formulations as they face regulatory pressure. This heightened scrutiny could lead to rising operational costs and may require pricing changes for consumers. The increased compliance standards will likely benefit organized companies while posing significant challenges for smaller, unregulated businesses over time.
Food firms scramble for experienced safety professionals as demand soars
India's food industry is currently experiencing a significant shortage of experienced food-safety professionals. Employers have reported a 94.4% increase in job postings for these roles this quarter. Many applicants lack the required operational experience, which has created a major gap in the market. The demand for food-safety professionals is expected to rise further during the festive season. This situation is causing longer hiring timelines and higher salaries in the industry.
FSSAI pulls up Dr Reddy's, Nestle Health Science over Celevida claims
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said the product was advertised as providing high-protein support for preserving lean muscle during GLP-1/GIP therapies, commonly used in weight-loss treatment.
Reliance, PepsiCo, Monster get court breather over Campa ‘energy drink’ label ban
FSSAI's order barring Reliance Industries from selling its Campa beverages as “energy drinks” has been put on hold. This is an interim relief for the company in its challenge against the labelling restriction. PepsiCo and Monster Beverage can also keep the "energy drink" label on products in India after the court's hold.
Front-of-pack warnings can help consumers make healthier food choices: Experts
FSSAI’s proposed front-of-pack warning labels for packaged foods high in added sugar, fat or salt could make nutritional risks easier for consumers to spot and compare, health experts said. They also stressed that labels alone will not be enough and should be backed by nutrition education, clearer communication and wider access to affordable healthy foods.
Milind Deora backs FSSAI crackdown, says one year is fair for food cos to shift to new labelling
Food companies in India are expected to transition to front-of-pack nutrition labeling over the next year. The FSSAI proposed a system including red hexagonal warnings for unhealthy ingredients like sugar and fat. Milind Deora emphasized the importance of immediate nutritional disclosure to inform consumers effectively. Enforcement actions against misleading labels have been supported by Deora as a necessary measure for accountability.
A red hexagon on your food pack? FSSAI proposes new warning-label regime
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has proposed a new front-of-pack nutrition labelling system. This system will feature a red hexagon on a white background to indicate high salt, sugar, or fat content. FSSAI plans to implement these warnings within approximately four months after finalizing draft regulations. The system will inform consumers about specific nutrients of concern in packaged foods.
SC reserves verdict on FSSAI’s front-of-pack food labelling rules, seeks final submissions
The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment concerning the proposed front-of-pack labelling framework for packaged foods. This framework aims to highlight warnings on products high in sugar, fat, and salt. During the hearing, an NGO's counsel suggested that thresholds should consider total sugar and total fat instead of just added components. The court has directed all parties to submit their final written arguments within three days.
FSSAI proposes single-phase food warning labels, gives industry one-year transition time
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India intends to implement new front-of-pack nutrition labeling regulations. Food Business Operators will have one year to comply with the new labeling requirements. A red hexagonal warning label will highlight high levels of sugar, fat, and salt in packaged products. The FSSAI will adopt thresholds based on recommendations from ICMR-NIN for nutrient content.
Red Bull moves HC against FSSAI order on use of ‘energy’ term in drinks
Red Bull has moved to the High Court against the FSSAI's decision to prohibit the term 'energy'. The FSSAI directed several brands to stop using the term due to lack of category standards. During a court hearing, FSSAI was asked to check if any notice was given to Red Bull. Industry representatives argue that the term 'caffeinated beverages' is too broad and could confuse consumers.
FSSAI crackdown sparks hiring surge in food safety and compliance
Large food companies and restaurants are expanding their hiring for food safety and compliance roles. This increase is in response to rigorous inspections by regulatory authorities focused on hygiene standards. Companies like PepsiCo and LT Foods are actively seeking qualified personnel to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Restaurant chains are also implementing internal audits and training programs to enhance food safety practices.
'Transparency' packs the punch: Sales of packaged health foods with clean ingredients surge 60% in 2 months
Sales of packaged products with transparent healthy ingredient claims have increased significantly in recent months. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is proposing a new front-of-pack labeling system. Surveys show parents are willing to pay more for healthier snack options for their children. Consumer engagement with food transparency is rising, leading to higher demand for guilt-free snacks.
FSSAI initiates penal action against Amazon, Zepto, BigBasket, others
FSSAI has taken action against major e-commerce platforms for various food safety violations and misbranding. The platforms include Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Flipkart India, and Zepto. Regulatory non-compliance has prompted increased scrutiny of food products sold online in recent months. Consumers are being informed about enforcement measures through social media by the food regulator. FSSAI aims to ensure the safety of food products available to consumers across online channels.
94% of packaged foods may face warnings under nutrient limits; FSSAI ex-chief Pawan Kumar Agarwal urges SC for phased food warning rollout
Former FSSAI chief Pawan Kumar Agarwal has urged the Supreme Court to consider a phased rollout of front-of-pack food warnings, warning that the proposed nutrient thresholds could place labels on more than 94% of packaged foods and dilute their impact. His foundation suggested interim thresholds followed by stricter limits over three to five years, with mandatory labelling proposed from July 1, 2027.
What’s in a word? For India's FMCG brands, it's increasingly everything
Indian regulators are intensifying scrutiny over misleading food product claims. Companies now face legal challenges for unsubstantiated marketing statements. New front-of-pack warning labels are proposed for unhealthy packaged foods. This regulatory push aims to provide consumers with clearer product information. Companies are consequently allocating more resources towards compliance and quality checks.
Food and beverage cos rush to revise recipes ahead of warning labels
Food and beverage makers are proactively reducing sugar, salt, and fats in their products. This reformulation effort is happening well before the government's final labelling verdict. Companies are accelerating these changes, fearing negative sales impacts from proposed warning labels. Multinational corporations are also reducing ingredients ahead of global headquarters' mandates. This strategic shift aims to comply with upcoming regulations and consumer expectations.
Consumers deserve nutritional information on food packs; industry backs FSSAI move: Orkla India
Orkla India MD and CEO Sanjay Sharma backed FSSAI’s proposed front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) norms, saying consumers have the right to clear nutritional information. He said the industry supports the regulator’s objective of helping consumers make informed choices, with the main debate being over the format and implementation of the labels.
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