'This is your last chance': SC ultimatum to govt over front pack warning labels

The Supreme Court of India harshly rebuked the federal government and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for the delay in implementing front-of-pack warning labels on packaged food items high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat. The court issued a final ultimatum, granting the government two weeks to make a definitive decision or risk judicial intervention.

This decision is critical for public health, especially concerning children's well-being, the bench emphasized. Appearing on behalf of the Center, the additional solicitor general argued that strict warning standards could complicate traditional Indian food items and suggested that international nutritional standards might not suit Indian dietary habits.

Despite this, the court disagreed, stating that consumers were already aware of packaged foods' nutritional content, and warning labels would provide a more effective means of communicating risks before purchase. The court rejected the argument that warning labels could negatively impact manufacturers, emphasizing that consumer choice should prevail over commercial considerations.

The court also noted that various food products, including dry fruits and snacks like Kurkure, should be subject to greater consumer awareness. The case stems from a petition demanding mandatory front-of-pack warning labels for high-sugar, high-salt, and high-saturated fat food products, aiming to help consumers quickly identify less healthy options before making a purchase.