Dabur moves Delhi HC against FSSAI order banning '100%' claims on honey, ghee and other products

Dabur India filed a petition with the Delhi High Court challenging a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) order that bans the sale of products making 100% claims on honey, ghee and other items. The regulator directed Dabur to stop selling items with claims like 100% Natural, 100% Pure, and 100% Organic, citing the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018 which state such claims are ambiguous, unverifiable and likely to mislead consumers.

Dabur argues the prohibition order violated natural justice principles and statutory provisions, as it was issued without a prior show-cause notice or an opportunity for the company to be heard. The company also claims the regulator lacks statutory authority to issue a prohibitory order and that the 100% term is widely used by major food brands, with Dabur's reputation unfairly damaged by the abrupt order.

The FSSAI had previously objected to Dabur Himalayan Organic Apple Cider Vinegar and Dabur Organic Honey displaying the Jaivik Bharat logo without valid organic endorsement, and to Dabur Homemade Coconut Milk being marketed with a 100% Purity claim, stating such compound food product claims are not permitted. The matter is set to be heard by Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya for urgent listing.