SC Questions FSSAI Over Delay In Implementing Front-Of-Pack Warning Labels On Packaged Foods
The Supreme Court on Monday, September 28, questioned the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) over the time it has proposed for implementing front-of-package labelling on packaged foods, asking why the regulator needs so much time when public health is involved. A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran questioned the proposed timeline and the need for a year of…
On September 28, the Supreme Court questioned the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regarding the timeline for implementing front-of-package warning labels on packaged foods. The bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran inquired about the lengthy period of a year for voluntary compliance and the reasons behind starting a new process when work had begun in 2022.
The court emphasized the importance of public health and expressed disappointment with the current approach, questioning whether the regulator is fulfilling its responsibility to help consumers make healthier choices. The FSSAI, in its response, explained that the earlier exercise concerning the Indian Nutrition Rating (INR) star-rating system was based on a different set of criteria, and now proposes a red hexagonal warning label for products high in nutrients of concern, including sugar, fat, and salt.
The regulator expects a four-month period to finalize draft regulations, followed by a 365-day voluntary implementation period for food businesses. However, the court remains concerned about the lengthy transition period and the need for a more expedient approach for the sake of public health.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Food Companies Oppose FSSAI's Proposal Of Red Warning Labels On Packaged Foods freepressjournal.in
