FSSAI Proposes Red Labels On Packaged Foods For High Sugar, Salt And Fat After SC Rap

A major step may soon be taken regarding the health impact of packaged foods. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court regarding this matter. FSSAI has proposed affixing a red hexagonal warning mark to packaged food products. This label will be applied to foods that exceed the sugar, saturated fat, or salt standards.

In a hearing held on August 13th, Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran strongly reprimanded the FSSAI for the delay in implementing warning labels nationwide. The court stated that the FSSAI, under pressure from large companies and corporate houses, was compromising the health of the nation's citizens and children.

Following the court's strictures, FSSAI has now filed a six-page affidavit stating that a health warning mark will be placed on packaged food packages. This will be clearly visible so that consumers and children can easily understand it.

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To allow the food industry to improve the formula of their products and to provide immediate information to consumers, FSSAI has planned two phases -

Products that are naturally high in fat, salt, or sugar, or are made with a single ingredient, will be exempt from this rule. These include ghee, edible oil, salt, sugar, jaggery, and honey.

Previously, FSSAI had proposed simply listing the daily intake of fat, sugar, and sodium on the packaging instead of printing health warnings. The court expressed strong displeasure over this. The court questioned whether ordinary consumers or children would be able to understand and make informed decisions. Following the court's strictness, FSSAI has now submitted a new proposal. The next hearing in the case is expected on September 10th. The court's order will determine whether this proposal will be implemented or whether further changes will be made.

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FSSAI proposes a red hexagonal warning mark on packaged foods. This label will indicate if the product exceeds standards for sugar, saturated fat, or salt.

FSSAI is acting on directions from the Supreme Court, which wants clear warnings on food packages. This aims to help consumers, including children, choose healthier products.

A red 6-angle mark will be visible on the front of the packet. It will also specify if the product is 'high fat,' 'high sugar,' or 'high salt,' using a larger font.

Products naturally high in fat, salt, or sugar, or those made with a single ingredient, will be exempt. Examples include ghee, edible oil, salt, sugar, jaggery, and honey.

The implementation will occur in two phases. Phase one targets foods high in two or more of fat, sugar, or salt. Phase two extends the rule to all products exceeding limits for even one ingredient.

Vijaya Mishra is a Copy Editor at ABP Live English, with a sharp eye for detail in entertainment journalism. Her passion lies in Bollywood, global actors, and the vibrant entertainment industries worldwide. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), she balances her professional life with a love for literature and music. When not crafting compelling stories, you'll find her immersed in books and movies.