Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a strict stand against misleading claims and labelling violations on food products, issuing notices to Lotte India, Ferns N Petals, and Kuber Foods. The companies have been directed to submit their responses within seven days after the regulator found several instances of non-compliance that could potentially mislead consumers.
FSSAI stated that if the companies fail to provide satisfactory explanations, action may be initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The regulator said the move is aimed at protecting consumer interests and ensuring that food labels provide accurate and transparent information.
According to FSSAI, Lotte India violated multiple labelling regulations by using pre-printed labels bearing outdated product names without prior approval. The regulator also flagged the company's Lotte Choco Pie products for carrying a "100% Vegetarian" claim that was considered misleading. In addition, Pepero Biscuit Sticks were found to lack nutritional information in the prescribed format, while Lolly Bliss Lollipops failed to comply with vitamin declaration standards.
The regulator further noted that some Lotte products featured fruit imagery on their packaging despite containing no fruit ingredients, creating a misleading impression. Mandatory front-of-pack disclaimers were also reportedly missing.
FSSAI also objected to marketing claims such as "Natural," "No Preservatives," and "No Colours & Flavours," stating that product labels simultaneously declared the presence of preservatives, synthetic colours, and flavouring agents. Such claims, the authority said, violate food labelling regulations.
In the case of Ferns N Petals, FSSAI found that its Roasted Almond Chocolate was marketed as "Premium Chocolate" despite containing hydrogenated fat. The regulator also identified shortcomings in the declaration of ingredients and the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) information.
FSSAI reiterated that consumers have the right to receive clear and accurate product information. It warned that any mismatch between marketing claims and the actual composition of food products could mislead buyers and undermine consumer trust.
