"Label It Right": Supreme Court Mandates Clear Packaging Norms

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has directed the government to implement stricter food labelling regulations within three months. The move aims to ensure that packaged food items prominently display key nutritional information, including sugar, salt, and saturated fat content, empowering consumers to make healthier choices.  

The directive came during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), where the court highlighted the lack of transparency in food packaging. Justice JB Pardiwala, presiding over the case, remarked on the importance of clear labelling, stating, "You all have grandchildren? Let the order on petition come. You will know what Kurkure and Maggi are and how their wrappers should be."  

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has already initiated amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. The proposed changes include bold and prominent display of nutritional details, such as total sugar, salt, and saturated fat, along with their percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). These updates aim to combat the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and promote public health.  

This decision marks a significant step toward enhancing consumer awareness and addressing the growing concerns over ultra-processed foods. With the new regulations, India joins global efforts to prioritize public health and transparency in food labelling.  

Sources: NDTV, Business Standard, Times of India