Key facts
- India's FSSAI proposed red hexagonal warning labels for packaged foods exceeding limits in at least two of three nutrients: added sugar, salt, or saturated fat.
- Health experts argue the two-nutrient threshold is insufficient and unlike labeling systems in other countries.
- Activists are challenging the proposal in India's Supreme Court, citing loopholes and the two-nutrient threshold.
- Food industry representatives are concerned that the proposed thresholds and 100-gram benchmark will unfairly flag many products.
- The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on September 10.
India's government is facing significant opposition to its proposed front-of-pack food warning labels from both health experts and the packaged food industry.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently proposed a red hexagonal label for products that exceed limits in at least two of three key nutrients: added sugar, salt, or saturated fat. This move comes after intense public debate and prior industry lobbying that reportedly influenced earlier decisions.
Health experts, including Professor Barry Popkin, argue that India's proposed two-nutrient threshold is a flawed approach, unlike systems used in other countries where each nutrient is flagged separately. They contend that this method allows products high in only one of the flagged nutrients to evade scrutiny, rendering the labels potentially meaningless.
Activists and health groups are preparing to challenge the proposal in India's Supreme Court, citing loopholes such as exemptions for honey and jaggery, and criticizing the dual-nutrient requirement. A hypothetical example shows a Kellogg's multigrain Chocos box, high in sugar but within fat and salt limits, could escape a warning.
Major food companies, including Mars and Unilever's India unit, have stated their commitment to compliance but also highlighted regional variations and the importance of balanced diets. Executives from both Indian and foreign firms expressed concern that the proposed 100-gram benchmark and strict thresholds for sugar (over 3%) and fat (over 4.2%) could lead to a wide range of products being flagged as unhealthy.
The Federation of Sweets and Namkeen Manufacturers, representing 5,000 members, is particularly worried that sugar, salt, and fat are integral to many traditional Indian products, and that most packaged sweets and savory snacks could attract warnings, negatively impacting consumer perception and demand. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case on September 10.