Raids, shutdowns, warning labels – India’s unprecedented food safety push

India has embarked on an unprecedented food safety campaign, forcing numerous eateries and branded restaurants to halt operations. A push for front-of-pack warning labels has also unsettled the nation's $100 billion packaged food industry. This surge in scrutiny stems from long-standing consumer complaints about poor hygiene and frequent food adulteration scandals, which often go viral on social media.

Government data shows that food inspectors have tested over 100,000 samples annually, with about one in five deemed unsafe or lacking proper labels. Nearly 8,000 food business licenses have been revoked in the past three years. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified checks, releasing public updates, including photos and videos of raids.

One recent video showed inspectors seizing 1,300 kg of adulterated cottage cheese in northern Uttar Pradesh. The most prominent regulator is Tukaram Mundhe, who has targeted outlets operated by fast-food chains and upscale clubs in Mumbai. He has garnered public support for his surprise inspections and license suspensions. India has debated front-of-pack warning labels, with the measure stalled due to industry opposition.

Recently, pressure has grown from health advocates, social media influencers, and a Supreme Court case. FSSAI has now proposed a red hexagonal stamp on labels for high sugar, fat, or salt content. However, the proposal has faced criticism from both the industry and public health advocates, with the industry concerned that it could hurt sales and health advocates arguing that the thresholds are too lenient. The proposal will be reviewed by India's Supreme Court on September 10.