As part of a large-scale campaign to combat deceptive food labels, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sent notices requiring explanations from Lotte India Corporation Pvt Ltd, Ferns N Petals Pvt Ltd, and Kubera Foods.
Allegations of Misleading Marketing
These companies are accused of having statements on the front of their product packaging that may mislead consumers regarding composition and nutritional value. The companies have been given seven days to explain why cases should not be filed against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Expert Opinion on Labeling
Dietitian Monita Gehlot from AIIMS Delhi emphasized that product labels are an important source of information that helps consumers make informed dietary decisions. She noted that the information on the front of the package must correspond to the detailed data provided on the back and advises consumers to study the ingredient list, nutritional information, allergen declarations, and other mandatory details before choosing a product.
Specific Violations
Kubera Foods came under scrutiny for promoting its 'Soft and Fresh Cream Bun Pineapple' as '100% natural' and with the claim 'No preservatives, colors, or flavorings,' even though the label indicated the presence of preservatives, synthetic color, and additives. FSSAI also objected to the use of terms such as 'Pure,' 'Fresh,' and 'Natural.'
Ferns N Petals received a notice concerning its 'Roasted Almond Chocolate,' which was sold as 'Premium chocolate.' FSSAI alleged that it used hydrogenated vegetable oil instead of cocoa butter, lacked mandatory declarations, and did not specify the amount of almonds.
Issues with Lotte India Products
Lotte India faced complaints across several items. FSSAI cited misleading claims of '100% vegetarian' on some variants of Choco Pie, the absence of nutritional information on Pepero biscuit sticks, and that the Fruitz Eclairs fruit éclairs did not contain fruit despite having a fruity taste. Furthermore, outdated pre-printed labels and violations of vitamin levels in some candies were noted.