India proposes front-of-pack warning labels for packaged foods after public outcry

New Delhi: India's food regulator has reversed its stance and proposed front-of-pack warning labels for packaged foods and drinks, following public outcry over the lack of strict labeling for high sugar, fat, or salt content. This move comes as a major setback for India's over $100 billion food industry, where major companies like Coca-Cola and Nestle have long opposed such labels, citing confusion among consumers.

Activists and the Supreme Court have repeatedly urged for the implementation of these labels, citing concerns such as obesity. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a red-colored hexagonal shape for products high in any two or more nutrients - saturated fat, sugar, or salt. The government has been trying to implement warning labels for years, but dropped a proposal earlier this year due to industry opposition.

Since the story was published, there has been a surge in consumer anger on social media, as companies have voluntarily used similar labels in European markets for years. The warning labels will indicate applicable declarations such as "HIGH FAT," "HIGH SUGAR," "HIGH SALT," and "HIGHLY SWEETENED BEVERAGE," enabling consumers to easily identify products high in specified nutrients.

The mechanism aims to facilitate informed food choices, especially for children and other vulnerable groups. Currently, producers are only required to list ingredients and basic nutritional information on the back of packaging. The FSSAI is considering the government proposal, and its experts will review it.