Supreme Court slams FSSAI for not introducing front-of-pack warning labels on packaged food products

On August 13, 2026, the Supreme Court criticized the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for failing to introduce front-of-pack warning labels on packaged food products. These labels would indicate the levels of sugar, salt, and saturated fat in the products. A bench led by Justice J.B. Pardiwala questioned FSSAI on whether they did not want children to grow up healthy.

The court was hearing a petition filed by the Kerala-based NGO, 3S and Our Health Society, which sought directions from the Centre to introduce the labeling. Justice Pardiwala remarked that the FSSAI was being challenged in court, and questioned why they were not complying with their previous orders. The Additional Solicitor General Brijender Chahar argued that one-third of enterprises were based on traditional food, making certain items unhealthy.

However, Justice Pardiwala stressed the importance of considering the health of young children who could become addicted to unhealthy foods. The FSSAI had previously stated that front-of-pack labeling was in line with global practices and provided consumers with simplified nutritional information.