From KitKat to Maggi: Investigation reveals global food brands use different recipes in India

A Reuters investigation has revealed that major global food brands like Nestlé use different recipes for their products in India compared to other countries. For instance, Indian KitKats contain only 4.5% cocoa solids, whereas Australian KitKats have at least 22% cocoa. Similarly, Maggi noodles sold in India are made with palm oil, while those sold in the UK use sunflower oil, which is more expensive.

Despite many UK-sold Maggi packets being manufactured in India, they carry labels indicating high salt levels, as per the Reuters report. The investigation also highlighted that a former McKinsey consultant, Revant Himatsingka, has criticized Indian variants of Nestlé products, stating that they are less favorable. Himatsingka, known online as "Food Pharmer," has amassed over 5 million followers on YouTube and Instagram, arguing that many Indian consumers believe they are being offered lower-quality products.

This has led to legal challenges, with PepsiCo obtaining a Delhi court order to remove a video questioning the levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners in its caffeinated beverage. In response to the investigation, Indian regulators have directed companies to stop marketing certain products under specific categories within 90 days.

However, the industry is seeking greater clarity from regulators, with some proposing color-coded warning labels to indicate the nutritional value of packaged foods. Despite this, manufacturers are only currently required to provide basic nutritional information on the back of their packaging.