Overview
Consumer companies are seeking clarity from the government following the Supreme Court's directive for guidelines on ingredient labelling on the front of packaged products. An industry meeting is scheduled to discuss the implications.
Key Developments
- Companies are awaiting government guidelines and are prepared to adhere to new labelling requirements.
- New labelling might require companies to highlight sugar, salt, and fat percentages on the front of packaging.
- The Ministry of Commerce and Industries previously advised e-commerce companies to re-categorize health food drinks.
Role of FSSAI
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is considering "front of pack labelling" (FoPL).
- The FSSAI has requested recommendations from companies and industry bodies.
- In early 2023, FSSAI revised its draft policy and invited further comments from health experts and consumer organizations.
Industry Response
- Some companies have already started providing information on the front of packs.
- The industry is expected to comply swiftly once guidelines are finalized.
Supreme Court Directive
- A Supreme Court Bench gave the Centre three months to finalize labelling rules based on a plea for clearer health warnings.
- The plea emphasized labels indicating excessive sugars, sodium, unhealthy fats, etc.
- FSSAI received nearly 14,000 public comments on the draft rules, which will influence the amendment of 2020 regulations.
Implications and Industry Sentiment
- Companies anticipate that labels will need to display the percentage of unhealthy ingredients prominently.
- An executive mentioned that the draft guidelines merely need finalization, suggesting a swift implementation.
Statistics
- ₹14,000 public comments were received by FSSAI on the proposed labelling rules.
Conclusion
As the government moves towards new labelling guidelines, consumer companies are preparing to adjust their packaging to comply with upcoming regulations, ensuring clearer information for consumers regarding unhealthy ingredients.
