The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed introducing a single-phase Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labelling system for packaged food products containing high levels of salt, sugar or fat.
The food regulator made the proposal in an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court. Under the proposed system, such products would carry a red hexagon-shaped warning label on the front of the package. The label would identify the specific nutrient that exceeds the prescribed limit.
Proposed Labels to Identify Excess Nutrients
The proposed front-of-pack warning is intended to make it easier for consumers to identify packaged foods that contain higher-than-permitted levels of certain nutrients.
According to FSSAI, the warning label would clearly indicate whether salt, sugar or fat is the nutrient exceeding the prescribed threshold.
Draft Rules to Go Through Consultation
FSSAI said the proposed framework will first be discussed through consultations with the public and the food industry before the regulations are finalised.
The regulator has estimated that the draft regulations could be completed within around four months after the consultation process concludes.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information contained in FSSAI’s affidavit submitted before the Supreme Court and is intended for general informational purposes. The proposed labelling framework is subject to consultation and finalisation, and the details may change before the regulations are formally notified.